Cristian Stellini: Antonio Conte could make Spurs return against Milan

Tottenham assistant Cristian Stellini laughed off his 100% record while deputising for Antonio Conte and revealed a potential return date for his manager following the vital 2-0 win over West Ham.

Stellini again guided Spurs to a crucial victory – like against Marseille and Manchester City earlier this season – after second-half goals from Emerson Royal and Son Heung-min secured London derby bragging rights and sent them above Newcastle into fourth.

It ensured Tottenham ended a difficult week on a high after back-to-back defeats to Leicester and AC Milan had been followed by the news Conte was back off work after doctors ordered him to rest after he rushed his return following gallbladder surgery on 1 February.

Conte was able to be involved during Sunday's match to advise his coaching staff of tactical decisions via text as his long-serving assistant Stellini made it six wins from six when he has deputised, having also clinched three victories during their time together at Inter Milan.

"This happened because Antonio is the gaffer, not because I am the gaffer," Stellini said.

"I only follow the project of his work and the way he works is really clear.

"I am not expecting Antonio is back for Chelsea [on 26 February] but I expect Antonio will be back the week after Chelsea. For Milan or Wolverhampton.

"We have also the game in the FA Cup [against Sheffield United] so maybe not Chelsea but we don't know because if Antonio feels well and he can live some stress without some pain or feel something strange, Antonio will be back."

Conte would have seen a trademark first-half display by Spurs from his Italian home with chances limited to a premium but it was his wing-backs who broke the deadlock in the 56th minute when Ben Davies