Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi has praised Dejan Kulusevski’s attitude during his injury recovery, describing the Sweden international as an example to the rest of his squad.
Kulusevski has been working towards a return to action after nearly 18 months on the sidelines, with De Zerbi impressed by the midfielder’s commitment throughout his rehabilitation.
The Tottenham boss confirmed that Kulusevski will travel with the squad for Saturday’s Premier League clash against Manchester United, although his involvement will be in a supporting capacity rather than as a player.
De Zerbi also provided updates on James Maddison, Micky van de Ven and Jan Paul van Hecke ahead of the trip to Old Trafford.
De Zerbi praises Kulusevski’s injury recovery
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, De Zerbi singled out Kulusevski for the professionalism and character he has demonstrated while recovering from injury.
“He is working well. Tomorrow he comes with us for support,” De Zerbi said.
“He is working very well and I think he is an example for everyone.
“Forget the player but the example of how he reacted to the injury, the character he showed this time was an example and reference to everyone.”
Kulusevski’s continued absence has deprived Tottenham of one of their most creative attacking players, with the Sweden international capable of operating both centrally and on the right flank.
Maddison available as Van de Ven and Van Hecke return
Tottenham have received positive news elsewhere, with De Zerbi confirming that both Micky van de Ven and Jan Paul van Hecke are available for selection.
Van de Ven had suffered a hand injury while representing the Netherlands during the international break, raising concerns about his availability for the trip to Manchester.
However, the defender has been cleared to play.
“They are available to play,” De Zerbi confirmed. “Micky played four games, 90 minutes and JP just three games. The difference is this.
“JP yesterday, wife had twins and emotional aspect we have to consider but he’s available.”
James Maddison is also available despite experiencing another minor fitness setback.
“He’s available but he lost three, four days at the end of last week and start of this,” De Zerbi explained.
“James is a special player for us. Gallagher, as a 10, also he’s playing well.
“We’re both frustrated because he wants to be on the pitch. Not a big injury and tomorrow he can play but the Premier League is tough and you need to be fit and in the right condition to run and fight.
“He is working well and this is the way.
“The way is to complete three, four, five weeks in a row without feeling pain and problems and then he’s a normal player.”
De Zerbi backs Mateus Fernandes to succeed at Spurs
De Zerbi also discussed summer signing Mateus Fernandes, insisting the midfielder remains an important part of his plans despite needing time to settle at Tottenham.
Fernandes was among the club’s major arrivals during the summer transfer window, with Spurs investing heavily in their squad.
The Italian believes the midfielder has the ability to become a key player but acknowledged that adapting to his new surroundings will take time.
“He’s a great player, he’s one of the best in our team and he needs time to understand the club and come inside the environment of Spurs,” De Zerbi said.
“I have confidence in him.”
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