Conte blamed ‘selfish’ Tottenham after draw at Southampton

Antonio Conte criticized Tottenham’s players, ownership and winning mentality after they conceded a penalty to draw 3-3 at Premier League strugglers Southampton on Saturday.

Spurs led 3-1 with 15 minutes remaining but Southampton secured a stunning late comeback with goals from Theo Walcott and a stoppage-time penalty from James Ward-Prowse.

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The result sees Spurs remain fourth in the table, but have played two games more than Newcastle United and Liverpool.

After the game, Conte attacked the players for the way they failed to deliver throughout the campaign in all competitions.

“I’m really upset because it’s not the first time and I think I can tell you today it’s an upset because we’re winning 3-1 with 15 minutes to go and I think you have to win,” Conte told BBC Sport.

“Instead, we showed this the second time, things started to improve last season, but we lost the characteristics of last season. I don’t want to talk about the technical aspect, there is a lack of spirit.

“We are not a team. We are a team that everyone thinks about themselves. When you are like that, it can happen, you lose to Sheffield United and you lose the FA Cup with AC Milan and you end that streak you win 3-1 and you can give them the last 15 give the opportunity for them to return. I don’t see a sense of responsibility among the players.

“It’s tough now — we’re working hard with this group and we’re moving in the right direction. We’re behind, I see a lot of negative situations and a lot of selfish situations and players I don’t like. I know the way to beat teams, I’ve beaten a lot of teams in the past, beating teams.

“Now instead we’re going backwards, nobody is interested in this. I’m very frustrated with this because me and the staff stay every day to figure out how to improve. Honestly, it’s time for me to take responsibility for myself, the staff, the club and the players.”

Speaking in his post-match press conference, Conte also appeared to aim for a dig at the club’s ownership.

“They’re used to it here. Don’t play for something important. They don’t want to play under pressure. They don’t want to play under stress.

“Tottenham’s story is this. There’s been an owner for twenty years and they’ve never won anything. Why? It’s only a fault for the club, or for any manager who stays here. I’ve seen the managers Tottenham have had on the bench.

“It is time to change this situation if Tottenham want to change. If they want to continue in this way, they can change the manager, many managers, but the situation cannot be changed. Trust me.”

Spurs also face a major injury concern after a tearful Richarlison had to be withdrawn inside the first five minutes.

Conte’s side face Everton after the international break on April 5.