By Noel Whelan

30th Jan, 2023 | 12:14pm

Pundit tips Antonio Conte for swift exit after 'really dire' Tottenham development

Noel Whelan has claimed Tottenham fans “won’t care at all” if Antonio Conte chooses to depart the club.

The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted Spurs are playing “really dire football” under the Italian – and called for Daniel Levy to appoint Mauricio Pochettino or Thomas Tuchel.

According to The Times (22 January), Conte and Tottenham have paused contract talks until the end of the season – when his current deal is set to expire.

The former Chelsea boss has refused to commit his future to the club in interviews throughout the 2022-23 campaign.

Spurs sit fifth in the Premier League – three points of fourth-place Man United having played a game more.

Conte’s side return to Champions League action with a two-legged Round of 16 tie against AC Milan next month.

Whelan told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “I don’t think the fans will care at all if Conte goes now. They’re not enjoying his football.

“Tottenham have always been renowned for their flair, for their impressive nature. They’ve had Waddle, Hoddle, Ardilles, Villa, Gazza – the list goes on.

“They entertained the fans. Conte has put shackles on players.

“They’re leaking goals and having to fight back in almost every game.

“They’ve got the best stadium in the world, but they play some really dire football at times. It’s boring.

“When you look at the squad Conte has, they should be banging in four goals a game.

“The fans wanted him at the start of the season, but they won’t be complaining if Levy goes out and gets a Pochettino or a Tuchel.

“They need someone more expansive and attacking-minded.”

In other news, Tottenham expert issues “big” transfer verdict after journalist’s takeover update.