Tottenham Hotspur have announced that manager Antonio Conte will soon be undergoing surgery to remove his gallbladder after experiencing "severe abdominal pain".
The former Chelsea and Inter Milan manager will step away from his touchline duties for an unspecified period of time as he recovers from the operation, which will take place later today.
Tottenham announced on Wednesday morning that Conte had been diagnosed with cholecystitis, which is a condition where the gallbladder becomes inflamed, and he will soon undergo a cholecystectomy to remove the organ.
"Antonio Conte recently became unwell with severe abdominal pain," the North London club said in a statement.
"Following a diagnosis of cholecystitis, he will be undergoing surgery to remove his gallbladder today (Wednesday) and will return following a period of recuperation. Everyone at the club wishes him well."
Conte's assistant Cristian Stellini will take over first-team duties for the time being, starting with Sunday's Premier League clash with reigning champions Manchester City.
Conte - whose Tottenham contract expires at the end of the season - has won 37, drawn 10 and lost 19 of his 66 games in charge of Spurs, who lie fifth in the Premier League table.
Ben Knapton
