Conte says Champions League qualifying will be good season for Spurs

While the Premier League side have yet to come close to clinching any silverware this year, a Champions League berth would represent a successful season for Tottenham, head coach Antonio Conte said on Thursday .

The north London club enter Saturday's game at Southampton fourth on 48 points, two points behind third-placed Manchester United with a game in hand.

However, they could be feeling some extra pressure after their 1-0 loss to Sheffield United in the last fortnight , as they face AC Milan and the FA Cup in the Champions League and FA Cup .

Conte told a news conference: " For sure, finishing in Europe this season, like last season, would be a good achievement. I think that in every season, finishing in the top four means you're doing well. Had a great season. "

The coach will keep the same squad for Southampton, with key players Ryan Sessegnon, Yves Bizuma , Rodrigo Bentancur and Hugo Lloris still out with long-term injuries absent.

Conte added that captain and goalkeeper Lloris would be his first choice once he returns, although substitute Fraser Foster has impressed.

" For sure, Fraser is playing well. He's proving he's a solid player. He's proving he's a very good guy, " Conte said.

" Hugo is our keeper but he has to be fit until he comes back. We're not going to force the situation because he, Fraser, deserves credit. We're really happy with Fraser but when Hugo is ready Hershey, he's our first pick. "

Conte shrugs off doubts over Tottenham future

Conte also shrugged off questions over his future at Tottenham , whose contract expires at the end of the season.

" I don't think any club can tell the manager ' you stay here until the end of the season ' , " Conte said.

" You know, football is really weird. You don't know what's going to happen tomorrow, you get it. But I repeat: In my opinion, we're trying to do everything every moment, me and my staff. I think the club appreciates that "