Gabby Agbonlahor believes that Antonio Conte is to blame for Tottenham’s inability to start strongly in the Premier League.

Spurs are currently sitting in fifth spot in the table and just two points from the top four as they prepare to take on Aston Villa on New Years Day.

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Unfortunately, the north London side are on a frustrating run that has seen them go behind in nine consecutive top flight fixtures.

While still in a relatively strong position in the table, Tottenham fans have been left frustrated at what might be as make hard work of their challenge for the top four, something that Agbonlahor believes will be the manager’s fault if they miss out on Champions League football next term.

Speaking to talkSPORT’s Full-Time Phone-In, Agbonlahor said: “When we were players, if we conceded the first goal, the manager would be on you all week.

“He’d tell you to get out there and score the first goal, you get out there and you’re at it from the first minute, but Spurs can’t seem to do that.

“I’ve got to blame Conte. I’m sorry, but he’s that experienced, he should be on these players.

“They’ve had six weeks during the World Cup, go out and score the first goal – what’s wrong with you? You can’t afford to keep giving teams goals.”

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Asked about Tottenham’s top four hopes, Agbonlahor said: “If you fade, he won’t sign a new contract. He’ll go, he will walk.

“Where would it leave Harry Kane as well? Harry Kane isn’t playing Europa League, he won’t want to play in the Europa League.

“He’ll be like ‘come on, what more do you want from me?’ He wants to play Champions League and win trophies and he’s playing Europa League, so it’s a big season for Spurs and their future.”