LONDON: Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Dejan Kulusevski is on the verge of making his long-awaited return to action after being named in the squad for Monday’s home match against Coventry City.
The Swedish international has been sidelined since suffering a serious knee injury in May 2025. His expected return comes as Tottenham search for their first Premier League victory of the season after a difficult opening six matches.
Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi confirmed on Sunday that Kulusevski would be available as a substitute following discussions with the club’s medical staff.
“ Kulusevski (is) on the bench. We had a meeting with the medical staff. They gave the OK and it’s great news,” De Zerbi told reporters.
“Deki, he suffered too much,” the manager added. “He deserves to feel emotion on the pitch.”
De Zerbi delighted by midfielder’s comeback
De Zerbi said he was particularly pleased to inform the 26-year-old that he would return to the matchday squad after such a lengthy absence.
Recalling their conversation, the Italian manager said he told Kulusevski that the medical staff had approved his return. The midfielder responded with a broad smile, reflecting his excitement at the prospect of playing again.
The Tottenham boss emphasised that the moment meant more than simply welcoming back a talented footballer.
“He’s a special player, but we are speaking about different things. He suffered a lot and his reaction was great,” De Zerbi said.
Kulusevski’s return could provide an emotional lift for the player and the club, although his inclusion on the bench does not guarantee that he will feature in the match.
Injury kept Kulusevski out for more than a year
The midfielder’s absence has stretched beyond 500 days, ruling him out of several major moments in Tottenham’s recent history.
He missed the club’s Europa League triumph in 2025, the entirety of the following season and this year’s World Cup.
Kulusevski had been working towards a return following his serious knee injury, with the club’s medical team ultimately giving the green light for his inclusion against Coventry.
His recovery represents a significant personal milestone after a prolonged period away from competitive football.
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Tottenham seek first Premier League win
Kulusevski’s potential comeback comes at a challenging time for Tottenham, who were bottom of the Premier League after six matches of the season.
The club spent much of the previous week at a warm-weather training camp in Marbella, southern Spain, as De Zerbi and his coaching staff worked to prepare the squad for the next phase of the campaign.
However, Tottenham will still be without several players for Monday’s match.
Injured duo Savio and Lucas Bergvall are expected to remain unavailable, while Rodrigo Bentancur will miss the game through suspension.
Coventry test offers chance for fresh start
Monday’s home fixture against Coventry, managed by Frank Lampard, presents Tottenham with an opportunity to pursue their first league victory of the season.
Kulusevski’s availability adds another option for De Zerbi as he looks to improve the team’s fortunes.
After enduring an extended spell on the sidelines, the Swedish midfielder will hope to build towards a full return to competitive action. For Tottenham, his comeback could provide a timely boost, both on the pitch and within a squad seeking to turn around a disappointing start to the season.
