‘Getting stronger with every game’: Postecoglou says Spurs have an ‘unbelievable’ £25M player who could explode tonight
As Tottenham prepare for their crucial Europa League semifinal second leg against Bodo/Glimt, all eyes turn to Dejan Kulusevski to fill the creative void left by injured teammates James Maddison and Lucas Bergvall.
The Swedish international finds himself thrust into the spotlight at a pivotal moment, with manager Ange Postecoglou expressing unwavering faith in his £25 million playmaker ahead of Thursday’s encounter in Norway.
Postecoglou’s glowing endorsement of Kulusevski couldn’t come at a more opportune time. With Spurs carrying a 3-1 aggregate lead but facing the hostile Arctic Circle atmosphere of the Aspmyra Stadium, the Australian coach highlighted the 24-year-old’s relentless work ethic as a potential difference-maker.
“Deki’s going to work his socks off for the team,” Postecoglou declared. “He’s got an unbelievable engine, doesn’t stop running, and he’ll be important for us.” These words carry extra weight considering Kulusevski’s recent return from injury himself, with the manager noting he’s “getting stronger with every game.”
The statistics support Postecoglou’s confidence. Since arriving from Juventus in 2022, Kulusevski has contributed 15 goals and 21 assists across all competitions for Tottenham. His versatility to operate anywhere across the front line or in central attacking roles makes him particularly valuable in this injury crisis.
Against West Ham last weekend, Kulusevski showed flashes of the dynamic form that made him an instant fan favorite during his initial loan spell, completing 3 key passes and 4 successful dribbles despite the team’s overall struggles.
However, the Swedish star’s future at Tottenham remains clouded in speculation. Reports suggest Kulusevski seeks assurances about the club’s summer ambitions before committing long-term, with Europa League success potentially swaying his decision.
Interestingly, sources indicate Tottenham’s hierarchy values retaining Kulusevski more highly than keeping Postecoglou – a telling indication of his importance to their project. His contract running until 2028 gives Spurs negotiating leverage, but the player clearly wants ambition to match his own.
This semifinal presents Kulusevski with the perfect stage to showcase his worth. Bodo/Glimt’s artificial pitch and passionate home support will test Tottenham’s mettle, requiring exactly the kind of tireless pressing and creative spark the Swedish international provides.
His ability to retain possession under pressure and pick incisive passes could prove crucial in managing the game’s tempo away from home.
For Postecoglou, Kulusevski’s resurgence comes as welcome relief amid a growing injury list. The manager’s praise reflects not just tactical appreciation but recognition of the player’s mentality – a quality that will be essential as Spurs look to close out the tie and secure their first European final since 2019.
With Maddison’s absence stretching until next season, Kulusevski has the opportunity to cement himself as Tottenham’s creative linchpin during this decisive period.
As Tottenham chase glory on two fronts – Europa League success and Champions League qualification via their league position – Kulusevski’s performance in Norway could define their season. Should he deliver, it may not only propel Spurs to Dublin’s final but also convince him his long-term future lies in North London.
The stage is set for the mercurial Swede to silence doubters and justify both his manager’s faith and the club’s significant investment.
One thing is certain: if Kulusevski performs to his capabilities, Tottenham’s chances of reaching the final increase exponentially. In a season of ups and downs, this could be the moment where the enigmatic attacker truly announces himself as Tottenham’s next superstar.
The coming days may well determine whether Kulusevski becomes the hero of Tottenham’s European campaign or whether questions about his future grow louder. For Spurs fans hoping for continental success, they’ll be praying it’s the former.