Tottenham boss Antonio Conte to undergo gallbladder removal surgery after cholecystitis diagnosis

Spurs have released an official statement confirming that Conte will be absent from the touchline for a "period of recuperation" after the surgery.

The Italian coach has been suffering with "severe abdominal pain" that requires emergency attention, with his surgery booked in for Wednesday.

Conte's assistant Cristian Stellini is set to lead the first team in Conte's absence for upcoming matches.

"Antonio Conte recently became unwell with severe abdominal pain," the club statement reads. "Following a diagnosis of cholecystitis, he will be undergoing surgery to remove his gallbladder today and will return following a period of recuperation. Everyone at the Club wishes him well."

No firm timeframe for Conte's recovery has been given, but he will definitely be absent when Spurs face Manchester City at home in the Premier League on Sunday.

Spurs are due to take in a trip to Leicester City six days later before their attention switches to the first leg of their round of 16 Champions League tie against Milan on February 14.