Tottenham coach Antonio Conte has been forced to use mannequins in training ahead of tomorrow’s match against Liverpool.
The North London side have reduced numbers due to a COVID outbreak in the squad, with nine players testing positive for the virus in recent weeks, alongside a number of staff and under-23 players.
British tabloid Daily Mail report that Spurs have only had around 10-12 players available for the training sessions, forcing the former Inter coach to deploy mannequins in training in order to make up the numbers.
Conte has confirmed that Tottenham are ready to play Liverpool tomorrow afternoon despite the reduced numbers, but it’s clear that their preparations for the game have been dominated by COVID.
Spurs’ last three matches were called off due to the outbreak, with their last game being a 3-0 win against Norwich City on December 5.
Liverpool, on the other hand, were recently in action as they beat Newcastle United 3-1 at home on Thursday this week.
Antonio Conte on training without the Covid-hit players, using mannequins, when the remaining players are returning, preparing to face Liverpool, plus his belief in Harry Kane. https://t.co/oLg4WDQL1O
— Tottenham News (@Spurs_fl) December 17, 2021
He’s not very mobile but this is a bit harsh on Eric Dier.