Tottenham Hotspur coach Antonio Conte has been dealt bad injury news ahead of their clash with Aston Villa in the Premier League this afternoon.

The Lowdown: Lilywhites in form...

In recent weeks, Spurs have managed to build a consistent run of form under Conte following a mediocre start to the New Year.

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The Lilywhites have won five out of their last six Premier League games, including impressive wins against the likes of Man City, Newcastle and Everton.

Tottenham are aiming to qualify for the Champions League ahead of 2022/2023, a feat which could majorly boost Conte's chances of staying in north London and increase their pull in this summer's transfer market.

As they take on Aston Villa today, though, it appears Conte and co will remain without a key midfield in Oliver Skipp despite reports earlier this week he was set to return to the grass.

The Latest: BBC relay team news...

As relayed by the BBC and confirmed by Tottenham's head coach, the English capital giants have been dealt some bad news as Skipp suffers a setback in his recovery from a hip problem.

The relapsed physical issue extends his spell on the sidelines with Spurs' academy starlet now missing Villa today alongside Japhet Tanganga - who is out for the season.

The Verdict: Blow for Conte...

While both Rodrigo Bentancur and Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg have proved a capable partnership in Skipp's absence, his unavailability remains a blow for Conte.

The 21-year-old hasn't featured since a defeat to Chelsea in late January and Spurs must surely be getting worried given the long-delayed return to full fitness.

Former Norwich City boss Daniel Farke described his 2020/2021 loanee as a 'perfect' player and it's safe to say Tottenham could really use his presence in the final run of crunch matches.

According to WhoScored, he's averaged a higher pass accuracy than any Spurs starter in the English top flight this season, backing his real composure and class at such a young age.

Indeed, a setback in his recovery may come as a big blow for Conte.

In other news: Tottenham eye agreement 'in the coming weeks' as they make offer for exciting midfielder! Find out more here.