According to Football Insider, Spurs right wing-back Emerson Royal got into an argument with a member of Conte’s coaching staff on the training ground.
The report states that this was the reason behind Royal’s absence from Spurs’ Boxing Day match against Brentford which they drew 2-2. And he is not starting against Villa either.
Furthermore, it is reported that the club is now willing to let the full-back leave during the upcoming transfer window.
The 23-year-old joined the North London club from Barcelona but has yet to make an impression. Despite his poor performances this season, he has kept his place in the starting lineup.
He had started 11 of Spurs’ 15 Premier League games this season, as well as all six of their Champions League games, prior to the Boxing Day match.
His current contract expires in 2026, but his time at the club appears to be coming to an end.
The report adds that Spurs will consider offers for him, and he is now more likely to leave than Doherty, who is expected to remain in light of recent events.
Matt Doherty who had an excellent mid-season scoring in all of Spurs’ friendlies has taken his spot in the starting XI.
Emerson’s attacking output had always been questioned by fans and pundits alike with him registering only one assist in all competitions this season.
The wing-backs are key to Conte’s style of play and their attacking output is just as necessary as their defensive work.
Antonio Conte will be hoping for a better performance against Aston Villa after a 2-2 draw with Brentford on Boxing Day.
A win over Villa puts them in fourth place on 33 points, one point ahead of Manchester United.
