Tottenham manager Antonio Conte is set to undergo surgery on Wednesday to remove his gallbladder after being diagnosed with cholecystitis.

The club announced that the Italian gaffer was recently down with severe abdominal pain, and he is expected to take some time off to recuperate after the procedure.

Conte was still on the touchline when Tottenham beat Championship side Preston North End 3-0 in the Emirates FA Cup fourth-round tie on Saturday. But would now be forced to stay away from the duty he loves most because of his health.

The 53-year-old former Chelsea and Inter Milan manager will undergo the surgical procedure today and is expected to be away from the touchline for some time while he recovers.

“Antonio Conte recently became unwell with severe abdominal pain,” the club said on its website on Wednesday. “Following a diagnosis of cholecystitis, he will be undergoing surgery to remove his gallbladder today (Wednesday) and will return following a period of recuperation. Everyone at the Club wishes him well.”

Spurs’ assistant manager Cristian Stellini and the rest of the first team coaching staff are expected to take charge of the squad’s activities until the return of Antonio Conte.

Tottenham, who are currently on a bad run, losing three of their last five league matches, will host Manchester City at home on Sunday in return to action in the Premier League.