Antonio Conte sends stern message to Tottenham fans following Liverpool loss

Antonio Conte has urged Tottenham fans to take a reality check and be ‘patient’ after their defeat to Liverpool on Sunday.

Spurs appear to be making process under Conte, although they looked vulnerable in defence against Jurgen Klopp’s men during their 2-1 home loss.

Tottenham were booed off at half-time, while the crowd reacted negatively to Eric Dier and Emerson Royal after making defensive errors.

Conte has been prone to expressing his own disappointment and frustration after defeats, but he cut a much more pragmatic figure following the match as he stressed the importance of understanding where Tottenham are in their ‘process.’

“We have to show great respect to our fans, because they pay for the tickets,” Conte said. “But, at the same time, if you ask me: was I disappointed? Yes, because it is important to be honest and I repeat that we have just started a process and, after one year, we made a lot of improvement.

“If someone thinks we are already ready to win, I have to be honest and tell you it will be really, really difficult, because when you start a process - and Liverpool is a good example - you need time and patience.

“If you understand this, everybody is OK, otherwise we can lose the passion, the enthusiasm.”

One piece of good news for Tottenham is that Son Heung-min should fit to return after the World Cup after undergoing surgery on his eye socket.

“I sent him a message yesterday after his surgery and Sonny was really disappointed with his situation,” Conte said. “I am confident he can come back quickly and play at the World Cup for South Korea.”