Antonio Conte hailed Harry Kane’s ‘amazing’ performance after Tottenham’s 5-1 win over Newcastle on Sunday. The Spurs striker didn’t score but did provide an assist for Matt Doherty’s header which gave them a 2-1 lead shortly after half time.
Fabian Schar had put the Magpies in front in the 39th minute, but the home side drew level moments later through Ben Davies. Goals from Son Heung-min, Emerson Royal and Steven Bergwijn sealed arguably the most complete display of Conte’s reign.
The win lifted Spurs up to fourth in the table, however, they’re level on points with fifth placed Arsenal. And their north London rivals will reclaim the coveted final Champions League spot with a win or draw at Crystal Palace on Monday night.
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Kane was imperious against the Magpies and has been outstanding in recent weeks after a slow first half of the season, the 28-year-old has eight Premier League goals and five assists in 2022. And Conte paid tribute to his display, claiming the only thing missing from his performance against Eddie Howe’s side was a goal.
“His performance was amazing. I said to him at the end of the game ‘it was a shame he didn’t score’, but he played fantastic and made an assist," Conte told Sky Sports.
“To have this type of player in your team makes you strong, having him in our side is very important. I like the person, first of all, sometimes players with great talent don’t work hard. Before a great player, he’s a great mate.
“He has been an example since the first day. Usually when you are a top player, sometimes you are a bit lazy, but this is what I like is that he is a big example for his teammates.”
Kane will need to maintain his scintillating form if Spurs are to finish fourth and bring Champions League football back to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Next up for Conte’s side is a trip to Aston Villa on April 9.
