Tottenham Hotspur star Dejan Kulusevski has been a mainstay for the club under manager Ange Postecoglou, starting four of the club’s five Premier League games this term and fulfilling several tactical duties.
The 24-year-old can play out wide or through the middle, and Postecoglou exploits his tactical versatility to carry out different strategies.
Spurs captain Son Heung-min hailed his application and ability to cover many roles for the team. The South Korean attacker said (via Football London): “I think it’s all about depending on the situation, but Deki is the kind of guy who wants to be more in the middle so that he can handle the ball really well with his back to the opponent and I think that’s his game and he’s a joy. At the moment, he’s having a great season.
“One thing that not everybody is talking about is that Deki’s work rate is unbelievable. He’s everywhere on the pitch, you know? I think people don’t always see that you know, but like, he works really hard that I think so hard that when I see all the data and sometimes I get shocked, you know? So it feels like he never stops running.”
Kulusevski has looked excellent as a number eight alongside James Maddison in the 4-3-3 system. His graft and technical ability allow him to shine through the middle.
Postecoglou hopes Maddison and Kulusevski develop an excellent understanding and tactical balance as Tottenham continue their hunt for a first trophy since 2008.
Postecoglou heaped pressure on himself by claiming he always wins a trophy in his second season, and they are now under fire to deliver.
The Australian knows the cups are his best chance of winning a title, with the Europa League up for grabs. Spurs are two-time UEFA Cup winners and are one of the top-rated teams in the competition.
Tottenham begin their Europa League campaign tonight, welcoming Azerbaijan Premier League champions Qarabag FK. Spurs will look to lay down a marker with a win.
