Antonio Conte has told his pre-match press conference – as per Football London – that Tottenham attacker Dejan Kulusevski will be “unavailable” to play against Everton on the weekend, despite pre-match hopes he was fit.
Speaking after the win over Eintracht Frankfurt in the week, Conte said that he was confident Kulusevski would be back. The 22-year-old has spent the last few games on the sidelines, after a hamstring injury while with Sweden.
Since then, Richarlison has been used alongside Son Heung-min and Harry Kane in the final third. But the lack of creativity has been noticeable without winger Kulusevski in the side. Branded “lethal’ by Rodrigo Bentancur.
Speaking ahead of this weekend’s clash against Everton, Conte said that Kulusevski would be unavailable. The Italian gaffer said it is important not to take “stupid risks”, and is unsure if he will be okay to face Manchester United.
“Deki is still not available for Everton. We need to have a bit of patience. Don’t take stupid risks. He’s not 100% sure to be really fit and in perfect condition. It’s important to respect the opinion of the doctors on the player.
“It’s a bit difficult to answer yes or no [if fit to face Man United]. It depends on the new MRI he did today, what the doctors say. It’s important to respect the feeling of the player. Otherwise it’s not good to take stupid risks.”
Conte: Tottenham attacker Kulusevski unavailable against Everton
A real blow. Having said in the week that Kulusevski was likely to be back, to now potentially rule him out of the next two games – two big games – against Everton and Manchester United is damaging. However, all is not lost.
Lucas Moura is back after making a substitute appearance against Frankfurt. Bryan Gil also impressed, winning a penalty against the German side. Conte says all other players are fit, meaning Richarlison’s knee issue is resolved.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
