Ange can solve big Kulusevski injury blow by unleashing “incredible” Spurs ace tonight

Tottenham Hotspur return to Europa League action tonight, eager to bounce back after suffering their first Premier League defeat since January. Ange Postecoglou’s team has faced challenges in domestic competition this season but has been far more formidable on the European stage.

Finishing fourth in the league phase with five wins, two draws, and just one loss allowed Spurs to bypass the play-off round, setting up a crucial knockout tie against AZ Alkmaar.

However, their path to success won’t be straightforward, as they will have to navigate this fixture without the influential Dejan Kulusevski. Fortunately, Postecoglou may already have the perfect solution within his squad.

Kulusevski has been one of Spurs’ standout performers this season, delivering arguably his best campaign in a Tottenham shirt. Despite alternating between a wide role and a more central position, the Swedish international has remained a potent attacking force.

In 42 appearances, totaling 3,054 minutes, he has scored ten goals and provided ten assists, making him one of the most productive players in the squad.

Dejan Kulusevski’s 2024/25 Season Stats

(Source: Transfermarkt)

Kulusevski’s absence presents a significant problem for Spurs, as his contributions have been vital throughout the season. His ability to influence games is evident, with a goal involvement every 2.1 matches or every 152.7 minutes.

Speaking to the media, Postecoglou confirmed that the 24-year-old suffered a minor foot injury, describing it as “nothing serious,” but he is unlikely to return before the international break. This timing is far from ideal, as Spurs prepare for a crucial European fixture.

While losing Kulusevski is a setback, Tottenham have an excellent alternative who can step up in his absence: James Maddison. The English playmaker has been one of Spurs’ most creative and dangerous midfielders, making him the natural choice to fill the void left by the Swede.

Maddison’s ability to control games, create chances, and contribute to goals makes him an ideal replacement in the attacking midfield role.

James Maddison’s 2024/25 Season Stats

(Source: Transfermarkt)

Maddison’s numbers are actually superior to Kulusevski’s in some aspects. He averages a goal involvement every 119.94 minutes, compared to the Swede’s 152.7 minutes.

His efficiency in front of goal and ability to provide assists make him a critical player for Postecoglou’s system. FBref statistics further highlight his impact, ranking him in the top 1% of Premier League midfielders for actual and expected non-penalty goals, the top 5% for assists and progressive passes, and the top 3% for shot-creating actions per 90 minutes.

Spurs must find a way to maintain their attacking threat against AZ Alkmaar, and Maddison’s inclusion in the starting lineup could be the key. His ability to dictate play, link up with forwards, and unlock defenses ensures that Tottenham can remain competitive even without Kulusevski.

While missing a key player is always a challenge, Maddison’s form and creative influence should provide Spurs with the firepower needed to overcome this setback.

Tottenham’s European campaign has been a bright spot in an otherwise inconsistent season, and advancing further in the competition remains a priority. With the return leg still to come at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, securing a strong result in the first leg is crucial.

Maddison’s presence in the midfield could be the decisive factor, ensuring Spurs continue their push for Europa League success.