Interim boss Stellini insists Spurs are no crisis club amid upheaval

Interim Tottenham boss Cristian Stellini has quashed suggestions of the club being in crisis.

Spurs axed manager Antonio Conte last weekend, with his 48-year-old assistant surprisingly opting to stay put in North London and take over first-team affairs until the end of the season.

Things then went from bad to worse for Spurs on Wednesday when director of football Fabio Paratici had his ban in Italy extended worldwide by FIFA.

Despite the upheaval, Stellini sees no reason for major panic.

Speaking at his Friday press conference, the Italian explained: "No, this is not a club in crisis. Absolutely not. 

"Everyone takes the decision for the best and when you take the decision for the best, you are not in crisis.

"If you have some matters, we have to stay compact and we have to stick together to move on and play the matches."

Many fans were left stunned when Stellini was confirmed as the club's new temporary manager — particularly given his close friendship with Conte.

However, Stellini has revealed that the ex-Inter boss actually played a leading role in him landing the post.

He added: "My relationship with Antonio is still the same. Very close, nothing changes between me and him.

"I have to say thanks to him also, because I've improved a lot in my career up until now and this is why.

"I spoke with Antonio. The club and Antonio spoke to each other. They take the decision together and they let me know. I was aware of it.

"They call me and say the decision is taken and if you agree with us, you can do it. I had no problem to say yes."