Conte: I don’t deserve ban

ANTONIO CONTE believes he should be spared a touchline ban after his post-match clash with Chelsea’s Thomas Tuchel. Both managers were red-carded following a full-time bust-up after Sunday’s fiery draw, though Tottenham manager Conte has claimed the ‘soft’ nature of the FA’s charge shows the flashpoint was not as big as it appeared.

The duo — who were both charged with improper behaviour — had until last night to respond and the independent commission could meet as early as today to rule on the high-profile incident.

Asked if he expects to avoid a suspension for tomorrow’s meeting with Wolves, Conte — who accepted his charge — said: ‘I hope so. I think that it’s right, it’s right to stay in my place.

‘For sure after this type of situation you can learn a lot, but at the same time I think that for many situations I was really good to keep calm.’ Both bosses downplayed the incident at Stamford Bridge. The FA’s charge does not say that the incident is being considered violent or aggressive, rather it is being treated as a non-standard, rather than standard, case giving the panel greater punishment scope. Conte said: ‘I see that the FA made us, both coaches, more soft charge, no?’ The Italian added: ‘The most important thing is we have to move on and to respect each other. And for me, the situation finishes there.’

• CHELSEA have pledged to take the strongest action against a fan pictured performing a racist gesture towards Tottenham’s Heung-min Son, labelling the man an ‘idiot’. Chelsea are still trying to identify the man.