Tottenham defender Matt Doherty admits manager Antonio Conte to get as many minutes as possible with the Republic of Ireland over the coming week.

Many Premier League managers lack enthusiasm for international football, but Doherty quips that ex-Italy coach Conte has told Stephen Kenny that he wants to see Doherty get some game-time in the next two matches.

“That's exactly what he said, he wants me to come away and try and get two games in. That's kind of the plan, if Stephen obeys him," Doherty joked.

But Conte's regime is no laughing matter and while it's hard work, Doherty says he's thriving under the intense glare of the Tottenham boss.

“I think just obviously fitness-wise, there has been a huge improvement among the whole squad, not just me. It's a different style of playing, a different way of playing, and I think you can see that from the results we get at club level now," says Doherty, who is working his way back into the Spurs side after a season-ending injury last term saw him lose his place.

“We're not dominating teams on the ball, but we never really look like we'll concede many goals and with the boys up top, we'll always have chances to win.

“And just mentally, he's changed the whole mentality of the whole club. He's made us feel like winners. We know he's obviously won a lot in the past and we're kind of trying to do it."