Star Metro - Kulusevski return can spark Spurs: De Zerbi

Kulusevski has not played for Tottenham since May 2025 after suffering a knee injury, but the Sweden forward returned to full training this week.

Although the 26-year-old is not ready to face Aston Villa on Saturday, he should make his comeback after the international break.

De Zerbi believes the Swede's presence in training has already lifted spirits after Tottenham's miserable start to the season.

"We have to manage him in the best way we can, with the medical staff, physical staff, but it's a great thing for us. He's a good player, he's a good guy and he deserves to play again," De Zerbi told reporters on Friday.

"We have to work day by day, also for Deki the international break is important because when he will be at the top of condition and pass over the injury, I think it's a great signing. A new signing for us!"

It was a similar story for James Maddison, who sustained anterior cruciate ligament damage in August 2025 before he returned ahead of schedule in May to help Tottenham avoid relegation.

Maddison was hampered by a shoulder injury suffered at Brentford on the opening weekend of this season.

But after an encouraging cameo in a 3-1 loss at Liverpool in the League Cup in midweek, the midfielder is primed for more minutes against Villa.

"When he arrives to the best condition, it's very important for us as a personality, as a characteristic, as a quality, as an experience. The quality of his passes are different than the others," Italian coach De Zerbi said.

Despite their close-season spending spree on 10 new signings, north London club Tottenham are winless and goalless in the Premier League after four matches.

Villa have made an even worse start with just one point and a defeat against Unai Emery's men would be a huge blow for De Zerbi.

"You have to stay calm, to be confident in what you are doing, what the players are doing. They have my full confidence," the Spurs boss said.

M.Johnston--SMC