Tottenham Hotspur manager Antonio Conte relies heavily on his wing-backs to execute his 3-4-3 as they’re an attacking option in possession, defensive cover out of possession.
In an interview with Spurs TV, the Italian tactician spoke about Ryan Sessegnon and Matt Doherty. Conte stated the importance of wing-backs and added that these two players continue to improve.
“In this type of system, the wing-backs are of fundamental importance,” Conte said. “Our wing-backs are improving, and we are working on specific work for this role.”
“I’m pleased for Doherty, for Matt. He is one of the players who is most improved since my arrival. Now, he’s showing great personality, great quality. My expectation is the same for Emerson, Reguilon, and Sessegnon. They are improving and showing the will to improve.”
Should Conte remain past this season, it will be interesting to see both these players are the wing-backs heading into the 2022-23 season. During the January transfer window, Tottenham did have an interest in Adama Traoré to put him as a wing-back, but the deal never materialized itself.
These next few months could be crucial for Sessegnon and Doherty to let Conte know that they’re the wing-backs for him, and they don’t need to go out and spend a significant amount of money on upgrading the position.
Nonetheless, should they fail to impress, expect Spurs to target some players to fill this position next season.