Dejan Kulusevski has made a bold statement about his return to action as the Tottenham star steps up his rehabilitation.
The attacking midfielder has been out with a knee problem since May of last year, with the injury ruling him out of the club’s Europa League final win over Man United.
Reports indicate that Tottenham are waiting for the pain in Kulusevski’s knee to subside before stepping up his rehabilitation, and there is thus no clear timeline for the attacking midfielder’s return.
The Spurs star has provided some positive updates regarding his recovery over recent weeks, and he now has a clear goal in mind.
Tottenham star Dejan Kulusevski would ‘bet’ on himself to play at the World Cup
Kulusevski’s World Cup dream is alive as Sweden, with the help of fellow Tottenham star Lucas Bergvall, secured passage to the tournament via the playoffs.
After overcoming Ukraine in the playoff semifinal last week, Graham Potter’s men secured a dramatic 3-2 win against Poland on Tuesday to book their flight to North America this summer.
Kulusevski is determined to play in the biggest tournament in football and remains confident that he will be ready to go.
When asked about his World Cup chances, the 25-year-old told Viaplay (as relayed by Football.London): “I haven’t played in a year. I know what the chances are. But if there is one person on the planet who can do this, I would bet on myself. And we are not just going there to participate. Sweden will aim to be one of the best.
“As long as I live, I will do everything I can so that Sweden, when we go out and play, will not be afraid of anyone. Brazil, France, whoever they are. That’s why I’m on this planet. To give faith and love to my people.”
Kulusevski admits he wanted to be there for his Sweden teammates
The Tottenham man linked up with the Sweden squad for the playoffs, even though he was not fit to train or play.
Kulusevski confessed that he wanted to be there to provide moral support to his teammates despite the physical challenges of doing so.
Speaking after his own role in the Sweden camp, the former Juventus star said: “I don’t want to take anything for myself. I want those who play to get all the credit. But I still want to be there for my little brothers. And I wanted to be part of this. Of course, it’s hard to have a limp and not be able to walk up stairs, but I put that ego aside. Because I want to celebrate with the guys.”
- READ MORE: ‘Nothing at all’ – Tottenham’s Xavi Simons becomes latest victim of Van der Vaart criticism