Tottenham Hotspur boss Antonio Conte has explained the reason he had a confrontation with a member of Liverpool's staff.

The Italian coach was given a yellow card during his side's 2-1 loss to the Reds in the Premier League at home on Sunday.

During the second half, Conte was booked by the referee after it appeared that he had gone over to Liverpool assistant Pep Lijnders to retrieve a ball that had gone out of play.

Conte told Sky Sports: “The assistant of Jurgen wanted to keep hold of the ball, but we clarified with him after the game and it was all good.

“I have great respect for Jurgen and his assistant."

Conte is no stranger to disciplinary issues, as he had to miss his side's final Champions League group stage game due to a suspension.