Tottenham are set to be without Dejan Kulusevski for a little longer than first anticipated, as a fresh injury update has now been shared.
Spurs have been without Kulusevski since the Swede suffered an injury during a 2-0 Premier League defeat to Crystal Palace at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium (11 May).
The right winger was one of the Lilywhites’ better players last season, and his absence was considered a huge loss.
And it doesn’t look as though Kulusevski’s return is imminent.
Kulusevski not expected to return for the start of next season
Tottenham have continued their pre-season preparations with a game against Wycombe behind closed doors at Hotspur Way.
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The confrontation had been hastily put together, with Thomas Frank determined to give his players more time to find their best form.
SPURSPLAY commentator Rob Daly gave an update 25 minutes into the first half regarding James Maddison and Kulusevski’s recoveries.
He said: “Maddison has rejoined training with the group, although Kulusevski will not be ready for the start of the season.”
Tottenham fans will no doubt rejoice at the news about Maddison after spending several weeks without watching their midfield maestro. However, Kulusevski’s update will come as a huge blow for Frank, who would have wanted him in time for the forthcoming season.
Kulusevski could find it difficult to win back his starting spot
The news of his recovery could come as a bigger blow for Kulusevski than for Tottenham.
Indeed, he would have found it hard to maintain his starting spot if he were fit before the start of next season. However, with the arrival of Mohammed Kudus and Maddison back in training, he could be moved out of that midfield position for good.
Kudus shone for Spurs during his debut against Reading and looked lethal when creating behind a striker and down the right wing. Furthermore, the good news about Maddison’s recovery should give him a head start to solidify his place in Frank’s plans.
As a result, Kulusevski could find himself back on the right wing despite preferring to operate in the midfield.