Spurs should keep Conte 'as long as possible', says Doherty

Former Tottenham Hotspur defender Matt Doherty says they should stay on as manager Antonio Conte amid speculation the Italian could leave after his sharp criticism of the team on Saturday .

Conte slammed his players for selfishness, lack of team spirit and inability to play under pressure in an extraordinary media conference following Tottenham's 3-3 draw with Southampton.

Despite reports that Conte will leave the club before his contract expires in June , Doherty said he hopes he will stay at Spurs for a long time.

" He's an unbelievable coach, an unbelievable manager, " Doherty told reporters ahead of Ireland's games against Latvia and France.

" He won't say anything in the media that he wouldn't say to his players, " added the 31- year-old, who left Tottenham for Atletico Madrid in January .

" He's completely honest with his players and passionate about the whole club. For me, I hope Tottenham will stick with him and keep him for as long as possible. He's one of the best managers ever. One. "

Tottenham are fourth in the Premier League but fifth-placed Newcastle United are just two points behind after playing two games in fewer.