Ranieri on Dennis not going to Afcon & Tottenham

Geoff Doyle, ±«Óătv Three Counties Radio

Claudio Ranieri has been speaking to the media before Saturday’s Premier League match against Tottenham.

Here are the key points from the Watford manager:

  • Emmanuel Dennis will not now be going to the Africa Cup of Nations after talks between Nigeria officials and the Watford board. “I am the coach. I accept everything. I spoke with him (Dennis). Of course he wanted to go but he also wants to help Watford.”
  • Watford have been able to train this week with just a couple of Covid cases in the camp. “I have almost all my players. I’m happy,” says Ranieri.
  • Midfielder Tom Cleverley is available but Danny Rose is still missing with a knee problem and fellow full-back Kiko Femenia is out with a hamstring injury. Youngster James Morris is being considered at right-back.
  • Ranieri will only think about the transfer window after the game: “My focus is only on Tottenham. After I will speak to the board and we will find the right solutions.”
  • He has plenty of respect for Spurs boss Antonio Conte. “Antonio is a fantastic manager. Where he goes, he changes the team. He wants to arrive in the Champions League and I think in the end he will.”