Dejan Kulusevski’s return to play has been delayed, prompting Antonio Conte to warn that Tottenham’s “huge problem” with injuries threatens to wreck their season.
The winger was anticipated to return this month after sustaining a hamstring injury while playing for Sweden.
However, Conte acknowledged on Friday that the 22-year-old winger now faces a race against time to recover before the Premier League takes a break on November 13 in preparation for the World Cup in Qatar.
Kulusevski has not played for Tottenham since September 17, while Brazil forward Richarlison will be out until November with a calf issue.
“Deki Kulusevski is not available. I believe we will have to wait a while to see him with us “Conte stated prior to Sunday’s matchup with Newcastle.
“Yes, since his recuperation was going well until one day when the situation deteriorated.
“We have a medical section to deal with injury issues, and they must resolve the situation quickly, because you know that if you are able to resolve the matter quickly, it means points on the board.”
Spurs’ offensive injuries have forced Antonio Conte to rely heavily on Harry Kane and Son Heung-min, while Lucas Moura has only recently returned from a lengthy calf ailment.
Conte’s squad is third in the Premier League, but they fell 2-0 against Manchester United on Wednesday after a lackluster performance that demanded the inventiveness of Kulusevski and Richarlison.
Conte acknowledged that injuries may impede Tottenham’s chances of finishing in the top four and advancing in the Champions League “Without a doubt, a situation of this nature presents a tremendous difficulty.
“Also crossing my fingers, as both Harry and Sonny are now in good health. I hope they remain that way or I’ll have to consider putting on my shoes to play.
“Now to complain, I believe it is unjust or unfair. When participating in the Champions League, especially if you play in the Premier League, you must anticipate a difficult season due to injuries, large games, and fatigued players.
“Sometimes it is possible to give relaxation, and sometimes it is necessary to drive the situation and risk injury. This circumstance is typical for a team like Tottenham.”
AFP