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Antonio Conte defends decision to drop Hugo Lloris in Tottenham's Carabao Cup semi-final loss to Chelsea after Pierluigi Gollini's error resulted in defeat as the normally 'reliable' Italian 'deserved this chance'

Antonio Conte defended his decision to omit captain Hugo Lloris from his starting XI for last night’s Carabao Cup loss to Chelsea.

Tottenham boss Conte faced criticism from supporters after handing second choice Pierluigi Gollini a rare start in the semi-final second leg loss.

The move to leave out Lloris backfired, as Gollini was at fault for Antonio Rudiger’s winner as he failed to punch Mason Mount’s corner away.

Antonio Conte defended his choice to drop Hugo Lloris for Spurs' Carabao Cup loss to Chelsea
Lloris' replacement Pierluigi Gollini was at fault for Antonio Rudiger's goal on Wednesday night

Lloris has been in excellent form for Spurs in recent weeks and in explaining his decision to rest the Frenchman, Conte said: ‘About Hugo Lloris, before my arrival at Chelsea (for last week’s first-leg), Pierluigi has always played in Carabao and the Conference League.