PA Media/dpa
London
AC Milan manager Stefano Pioli believes Antonio Conte’s return to the dugout after surgery will boost Tottenham but warned his team would not sit back in their efforts to reach the Champions League last eight.
The Italians lead 1-0 heading into Wednesday’s second leg in London.
“Well, yes a coach being in the dugout is always important,” Pioli said.
“Conte, there is no doubt will represent some added value by being present, but in any case we are playing against a tough opponent, who will be well prepared and very motivated.”
Spurs have been hugely inconsistent this season, with the Rossoneri also having an up-and-down campaign as their Serie A title appears to be heading to Napoli.
“We expect Spurs to put our ball carriers under more pressure compared to what they did in Milan,” Pioli added.
“I think they will be tough, strong and Tottenham if you look at their data, particularly in the second half, are a top, top team so we need to be really careful playing them.
“We do prepare our game from a tactical point of view, a strategic point of view but certain episodes determine the outcome of a game.
“We have a slender lead but we can’t just sit back and manage the game. We need to try to score through our game.”
