But Conte was back last week before the 4-1 defeat at Leicester and in the dugout for Tuesday's Champions League loss at AC Milan.

In an Instagram post, the Italian said he had "underestimated the procedure".

Conte went on to explain that his "great sense of responsibility towards the club, the players, the staff and the fans" had seen him return too early.

"Sadly, I underestimated the procedure, which wasn't a routine operation, but a sudden and serious emergency," he added.

"My body has suffered my impatience, and now I am forced to stop until my entire recovery.

"Who knows me, understands what a burden this is for me, but it is necessary."

Tottenham have not said when they expect Conte to return to his duties, with matches against Chelsea on Sunday, 26 February (13:30 GMT) and a trip to Sheffield United in the fifth round of the FA Cup (1 March, 19:55 GMT) on the horizon, after hosting the Hammers (16:30 GMT).

"Health is the most important consideration," Tottenham said

on Thursday.

"Following a routine post-operation check in Italy yesterday, Antonio Conte will remain at his family home to recover from his recent surgery," Spurs added.

"Everyone at the club wishes him well. Cristian Stellini will assume first-team duties."

Stellini, 47, oversaw Tottenham's 1-0 win over Manchester City on 5 February.

Conte stayed in Italy for his post-operation check following Tottenham's 1-0 first-leg defeat at the San Siro on Tuesday in the last 16 of the Champions League.

"There are two games at this stage and I am sure that in second game at our stadium our fans will create an important atmosphere to push us and overcome Milan," he said after the match.