Roberto De Zerbi has delivered a cautious Dejan Kulusevski injury update as Tottenham continue their pre-season tour without the Sweden international.
Spurs expect to learn more about his recovery over the next two weeks, but they will not rush him back after a full season without competitive football.
Kulusevski remained at Hotspur Way rather than travelling to New Zealand and Australia. He continues to work through his rehabilitation programme following a long-term knee problem.
Recent footage has shown the 26-year-old completing individual ball work and shooting exercises. However, he has not yet returned to full first-team training.
Dejan Kulusevski injury update from Roberto De Zerbi
“We have to see in the next couple of weeks,” De Zerbi said when asked about the attacker before Tottenham faced Auckland FC.
The Spurs head coach described Kulusevski as an important player but stressed that the club must continue assessing him carefully. He added that Tottenham would not take risks with either the player’s long-term fitness or their own plans.
The update does not provide a confirmed return date. Instead, Tottenham hope the next stage of Kulusevski’s rehabilitation will establish when he can gradually rejoin team sessions.
ReadTottenham’s latest report from De Zerbi’s press conference also covered the manager’s comments on Kulusevski and Mohammed Kudus. Kudus is closer to returning and could resume training when the touring squad arrives back in London.
Tottenham have attacking cover through Mohammed Kudus, Mathys Tel, Richarlison and other options. That depth allows De Zerbi to remain patient rather than place unnecessary pressure on Kulusevski.
The Dejan Kulusevski injury update offers no guarantee that he will feature during pre-season. The next two weeks should provide a clearer indication of whether he can target the opening months of the Premier League campaign.
