Tottenham Hotspur boss Antonio Conte has offered his sympathies to former club Chelsea following the news of sanctions against Roman Abramovich.
Amid his attempts to sell the Blues, Abramovich was hit with sanctions by the UK Government on Thursday morning following the invasion of Ukraine, with the 55-year-old's assets - including Chelsea - now frozen.
The European champions have been granted a special licence to continue playing but cannot conduct transfer business or renew contracts, and Conte is only hoping for the best for his former club.
Speaking to reporters at a press conference, Conte said: "Honestly I have just listened to this situation. This morning we had a training session. Is not easy, is not easy. Honestly, it's a pity, also because I was coach in this club, in Chelsea, I enjoyed two seasons.
"Also, I won two titles, I worked in this club. It's a pity to listen to this situation, it's not simple for the players, it's not simple for Thomas Tuchel, for the fans, for the whole environment, Chelsea environment.
"For sure, I love the team, the club, that I worked in, in the past. Every team that worked in the past. I hope for the best for them."
The Italian took charge of 106 games for Chelsea between 2016 and 2018 - winning 70 of them and claiming a Premier League title and FA Cup at Stamford Bridge.
Conte also admitted "bad news" over Ryan Sessegnon's injury ahead of Saturday's Premier League clash with Manchester United.
Ben Knapton
