Postecoglou delivers major injury statement ahead of Chelsea clash
Tottenham’s preparations for Thursday’s London derby against Chelsea have suffered another setback with confirmation that Dejan Kulusevski will miss yet another crucial fixture.
The Swedish international’s absence leaves a significant creative void in Ange Postecoglou’s squad as they attempt to salvage their faltering season through Premier League and Europa League competitions.
Kulusevski’s persistent foot injury, sustained during February’s encounter with Manchester City, continues to frustrate both player and supporters. The 24-year-old had emerged as one of Tottenham’s few consistent performers during an otherwise disappointing campaign, making his extended absence particularly damaging.
Postecoglou offered little optimism about an imminent return during his pre-match press conference: “Kevin [Danso] and Deki are working hard still, they’re probably a couple of weeks away, but both are progressing well.”
This timeline rules the influential forward out of three pivotal matches – the weekend’s Premier League fixture against Southampton, the first leg of their Europa League quarter-final against Eintracht Frankfurt, and the subsequent league clash with Wolves.
The earliest realistic return date appears to be the Europa League second leg against Frankfurt on April 17, leaving Tottenham to navigate their most congested period without one of their most technically gifted players.
The news compounds Postecoglou’s selection headaches as he attempts to stabilize a season threatening to spiral out of control. Tottenham’s recent form has been alarmingly inconsistent, with defensive frailties and midfield imbalances undermining their attacking potential.
Kulusevski’s ability to retain possession under pressure and create chances from wide areas has been sorely missed during his eight-match absence to date.
A glimmer of hope emerged with Richarlison’s return to first-team training, though Postecoglou remained cautious about rushing the Brazilian back into action. “Richy’s training with the group,” the Australian confirmed.
“It’s about when we reintroduce him to the matchday squad, but he’s training with the main group, which is positive.” This measured approach suggests Chelsea’s visit may come too soon for the striker, leaving Tottenham potentially light on attacking options against their capital rivals.
The timing of these injury setbacks couldn’t be worse for Postecoglou, whose position has come under increasing scrutiny following Tottenham’s underwhelming campaign. With just ten Premier League matches remaining and their European hopes hanging in the balance, the manager needs his key players available during this decisive period.
Kulusevski’s continued absence deprives him of a proven difference-maker capable of unlocking stubborn defenses – precisely the quality required against Chelsea’s improving backline.
Tottenham’s medical staff face mounting pressure to expedite Kulusevski’s recovery without risking further damage. The Sweden international’s importance to Postecoglou’s system cannot be overstated – his 7 goal contributions in 22 league appearances this season make him one of Tottenham’s most productive attackers.
His ability to drift inside from the right flank and link midfield with attack has been particularly missed during recent labored performances.
As the season reaches its climax, Tottenham’s ability to cope without Kulusevski may define their campaign. Thursday’s Stamford Bridge encounter represents both a challenge and opportunity – a chance to reignite their top-four ambitions against direct rivals, but also a potential banana skin without their creative fulcrum.
Postecoglou must now prove his tactical adaptability can compensate for the absence of one of his most influential players during this critical period.