Antonio Conte reaction: ‘Perfect day’ as Tottenham boss overcomes his ‘biggest ever challenge’

Antonio Conte hailed a ‘perfect day’ for Tottenham after they secured their place in the Champions League next season after a 5-0 rout at Norwich on the final day of the season.

A double from Son Heung-min, which earned him a share of the Golden Boot, two goals from Dejan Kulusevski and a Harry Kane header ensured Spurs finished fourth, with Conte turning the club around after taking over in November.

And speaking after the game at Carrow Road, he told BBC Sport: “It was a perfect day for us. We got a place in the Champions League. I think for a club like Tottenham to play Champions League is a great opportunity.

“It was not easy because in England the league is very difficult. There are many top teams. To get a place in the Champions League means we did something excellent.

“Nine games ago [he believed they could finish fourth]. I was very clear with my players and the media. I said now I feel we are ready and can fight until the end. It was the perfect moment.

“The players know very well our schedule. We made a paper with our games and it was a fantastic run apart from Brighton. We got fantastic results and now we’re talking about the Champions League. It’s great for everyone at Tottenham.

“I think so [it’s one of his biggest achievements]. Honestly it’s never positive to come into a team during the season. For me it was a big challenge, maybe the biggest challenge in my career. When I stay at the top level as a coach.

“I wanted to prove myself in a different situation with a lot of problems to solve. I’m really satisfied. I want to thank my staff and my players. If we were able to reach this big achievement, it’s because everyone gave everything.”

On Son-Heung min sharing the Golden Boot, he added: “This was our