Tottenham boss Antonio Conte was tightlipped about Romelu Lukaku's situation at Chelsea yesterday.
Conte, speaking ahead of Tottenham's Carabao Cup semi-final first leg against his old employers, declined to add his voice to those criticising the 28-year-old after his controversial interview last week.
Conte was asked about his former Inter Milan player, whose involvement in the game remains up in the air, but remained cautious in his answer.
"Honestly I'd like not to speak about Romelu because Romelu's now a player of another team," the Italian said.
"I think it would be disrespectful to speak about him and Chelsea."
Yet while facing a Lukaku-less Chelsea would be a boost for Conte's side, the Tottenham boss suggested there would still be a benefit to pitting his wits against full-strength opponents even if that means dealing with Lukaku in the midweek meeting.
"I think that it's always a good thing to play against a team that all the players are available. I think for the people who watch the game I think to see the best players on the pitch," he said.
Need a VPN? Or seeking to switch? Then support Tribal Football by clicking here to sign up with our official partners NordVPN. Not only will you receive the best VPN experience, but also great discounts by signing up via Tribal Football. Thanks for your support!