Tottenham head Antonio Conte hails Mikel Arteta for Arsenal campaign

Mikel Arteta’s side is four points ahead of the fifth-placed Spurs.

Tottenham manager Antonio Conte has hailed Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta for his successful campaign in Premier League.

Tottenham and Arsenal will face each other in the North London derby at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Thursday. Mikel Arteta’s side is four points ahead of the fifth-placed Spurs.

Conte has admired Mikel Arteta before the game, but warned things could change drastically over the next fortnight as they look secure Champions League qualification for season 2022/23.

Conte said: “We are talking about an important game for many different situations. The first, and most important thing is, we’re playing this game for an important target – a place in the Champions League.

“I think this has to be the first reason to win this game, and for sure we know very well the importance for our fans of this north London derby. This is the first time that Tottenham is playing this game in their home stadium with fans. We know this.

“But at the same time, my players I continue to tell them that we have to enjoy this moment. Because to arrive with three games to go, with an important target like a place in the Champions League, it means we’re doing a good job. The job is not finished. We have to try to get three points on Thursday against Arsenal. It won’t be easy because we’re talking about a good, well-organised team.

“Arteta is doing a really good job. He’s been in charge for two and a half years. He had the possibility to work, to improve his team. But at the same time to stay in this position for us, at this moment of the season, has to give us a big push to try to get three points on Thursday.”

If Tottenham manages three points against Arsenal, they can look for the top four finish.

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