The Italian was sacked after beating his players over the weekend (Image: Getty)

Tottenham Hotspur have finally parted ways with Antonio Conte and most of his backroom staff, with Cristian Stellini taking charge on an interim basis until the end of the season.

The Italian manager led Spurs to a top-four finish last season and is currently fourth in the Premier League this season, despite playing two games more than many of their rivals.

They could have gone into the international break third, but were given a two-goal lead against Southampton, prompting a furious tirade from Conte.

The former Chelsea and Inter manager slammed his players, accusing them of being “selfish” and not arguing.

Although Conte referred to “the chairman” in his rant, he allegedly made it clear to Daniel Levy and the board that his comments were directed solely at the players – although it didn’t save him from receiving the axe.

A statement from the club confirmed: “We can announce that head coach Antonio Conte has left the club by mutual consent. We achieved Champions League qualification in Antonio’s first season with the club. We thank Antonio for his contribution and wish him all the best for the future.

Cristian Stellini will lead the team as acting head coach for the remainder of the season, along with Ryan Mason as assistant head coach.

Cristian Stellini was Conte’s assistant, but remains in office after his compatriot’s departure (Photo: Getty Images)

Chairman Daniel Levy added: “We still have 10 Premier League games to go and we have to fight for a place in the Champions League. We all have to live together. Everyone has to come forward to get the highest possible result for our club and great , to ensure loyal fans.”

A number of Tottenham squad players are said to have become furious at Conte’s post-defeat comments, while there are growing concerns about the team’s style of play, both in the dressing room and in the stands.

Conte’s reactive counter-attacking tactics are at odds with the free-flowing football Spurs are known for – and fans demand – while the meek trophies of Sheffield United and AC Milan further soured things.

Meanwhile, in April 2021, Mason took charge of Spurs after Jose Mourinho was sacked on the eve of the Carabao Cup final. Despite losing to Manchester City at Wembley, Mason managed four wins from his six Premier League appearances in the dugout.

The 31-year-old, who was forced to retire from football five years ago after a serious head injury, came through the academy with the likes of Harry Kane and is popular with the side.

He has 10 games left this time and the Spurs are still struggling for a top four finish. His first game is against Everton on Monday 3 April at Goodison Park, followed by a home game against Brighton and a week later.