Antonio Conte insists Tottenham ‘know the importance’ of the club’s must-win North London derby showdown with Arsenal this week.
Spurs host their fierce rivals on Thursday evening in a huge clash, with the teams going head-to-head in the race for Champions League qualification.
Arsenal can secure their place in the top four with a win over Conte’s side this week, though a win for Spurs will close the gap to the Gunners to just one point ahead of the penultimate fixtures of the season this weekend.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Conte insisted his side are well aware of the importance of the game both for the fans and in the context of the club’s campaign.
“We are talking about an important game. Important for many different situations,” Conte said.
“First we are playing this game for an important target. For a place in the Champions League. This is first, to try to win this game.
“I also know the importance for our fans of this derby, the North London derby. This is the first time they’re playing this derby in their stadium with all the fans.
“We have to try to get three points against Arsenal. We are talking about a good team, a really well organised team. Arteta is doing a really good job. He’s had the possibility to work and improve his team.
“In this moment of the season it has to give us a big push.”
