As it happens, Ryan Lowe was picking up secrets about Antonio Conte before realising he even needed them. From the Tottenham manager's brother, no less, so the information is solid.
'I was in Antonio Conte's box watching Liverpool win with my boy,' he tells Sportsmail. 'We got invited down, had some food and all that. It was a great experience. His brother was excellent. We spoke about Antonio a little bit.
'Then, lo and behold, we get drawn against them. I know Antonio's agent and have asked him what red wine he drinks.