Tottenham Hotspur head coach Ange Postecoglou addressed the media following the recent Premier League loss to Crystal Palace. The spotlight was on Dejan Kulusevski, who suffered a knee injury during the match. Tottenham confirmed that Kulusevski underwent surgery on his right patella and will be sidelined for at least a few months. This news comes just days before the crucial Europa League final against Manchester United.
Postecoglou described the situation as “disappointing news.” He explained that the initial assessment did not reveal a serious problem, but the injury worsened the next day. The club’s medical team then decided surgery was necessary, ruling Kulusevski out for an extended period.
Impact on Tottenham’s Europa League Final Hopes
Kulusevski’s absence is a significant blow to Tottenham’s ambitions. He will miss the Europa League final, and his return date remains uncertain. Postecoglou refrained from setting a timeline for his recovery, stating that it would be “months rather than weeks” before Kulusevski is back on the pitch. The manager also declined to speculate on whether the player would return in time for the start of the next Premier League season.
The injury compounds Tottenham’s recent struggles with squad fitness. Key players like James Maddison and Lucas Bergvall are also sidelined, leaving the team short of options in midfield and attack. Postecoglou acknowledged that injuries have disrupted the squad all season, making it difficult to maintain consistency.
Son Heung-min Returns as Kulusevski Sits Out
There was some positive news for Spurs fans. Captain Son Heung-min has recovered from a foot injury and is available for the upcoming match against Aston Villa. Postecoglou confirmed that Son would play at least half the match, though he did not specify if Son would start. The manager emphasized the importance of fielding a strong team to secure a win before the Europa League final.
Son’s return offers a boost to the attack, but Kulusevski’s absence will be keenly felt. The Swedish international had shown growth this season, adapting well to a new role and even captaining his national team7. Postecoglou expressed his disappointment, noting that Kulusevski had overcome a previous foot injury and was regaining form before this setback.
Postecoglou’s Perspective on the Injury Crisis
Ange Postecoglou addressed the broader context of Tottenham’s injury woes. He noted that the squad has rarely been at full strength this season, which has forced constant adjustments. The coach praised Kulusevski’s resilience and work ethic, stating his belief that the player will use this setback as motivation to return stronger.
“I thought there was real growth in Deki this year. We integrated him into a new position, and he was really making an impact,” Postecoglou said.
The manager also highlighted the challenges of managing a team through an injury crisis. Despite these setbacks, he remains focused on preparing the squad for the remaining matches and the Europa League final.
Kulusevski’s Road to Recovery
Kulusevski will begin his rehabilitation with Tottenham’s medical staff immediately. The club has not provided a specific timeline for his return, but the expectation is that he will be out for several months. Postecoglou expressed hope that the player’s mental strength will aid his recovery and eventual comeback.
The loss of Kulusevski comes at a crucial stage of the season, with Tottenham aiming for European glory. His absence will test the squad’s depth and resilience as they face high-stakes fixtures in the coming weeks.
Kulusevski’s Season in Review
Before his injury, Kulusevski had established himself as a key figure in Tottenham’s attack. He adapted to a new role under Postecoglou and contributed both goals and assists. His performances earned him the captain’s armband for Sweden, reflecting his growing influence on and off the pitch.
The injury is a setback for both the player and the club, but Kulusevski’s determination and professionalism suggest he will approach his recovery with the same commitment he has shown all season.
Looking Ahead for Tottenham
Tottenham’s focus now shifts to the upcoming matches without Kulusevski. The team faces Aston Villa in the Premier League before the Europa League final against Manchester United. Postecoglou has called on the rest of the squad to step up and seize the opportunity to impress ahead of the final.
The press conference made it clear that Tottenham will not underestimate any opponent, despite their injury challenges. The club remains committed to competing at the highest level, with hopes that Kulusevski will return stronger when he completes his recovery.
Kulusevski’s journey will be closely watched by fans and pundits alike as Tottenham navigates a pivotal moment in their season.