Antonio Conte to undergo surgery following cholecystitis diagnosis
By Sean Walsh
Tottenham Hotspur have confirmed that head coach Antonio Conte will undergo surgery after recently being diagnosed with cholecystitis.
He will return to club duties following his recovery.
A statement from Spurs read: "Antonio Conte recently became unwell with severe abdominal pain.
"Following a diagnosis of cholecystitis, he will be undergoing surgery to remove his gallbladder today and will return following a period of recuperation.
"Everyone at the Club wishes him well."
Assistant manager Cristian Stellini is expected to take charge of the first team in Conte's absence.
Tottenham are due to take on Manchester City at home on Sunday before taking on Leicester City at the King Power Stadium next weekend.
Spurs then travel to Milan for the first leg of their Champions League last 16 tie on Valentine's Day.
Conte's future has been called into question with less than six months to run on his remaining deal but with no agreement over a new one in sight.
Spurs have underperformed at times this season but remain in decent positions in all three competitions they are still in.