'He could play': Antonio Conte hints 'quality' Tottenham star may well be in the squad to face Crystal Palace tomorrow

By Milo Clay

Antonio Conte faced the media today ahead of Tottenham Hotspur’s clash with Crystal Palace and hinted that Dejan Kulusevski may well be in the squad tomorrow. 

Spurs were dealt an unexpected blow before their 2-0 loss to Aston Villa on New Year’s Day as Kulusevski was ruled out with a minor muscle injury. 

The 22-year-old spent a lengthy spell on the sidelines before the World Cup and Tottenham missed his creativity massively. 

It was the same story on Sunday as Conte’s side never really looked like scoring against Villa, managing just two shots on target over the course of the 90 minutes. 

But Conte has hinted that Kulusevski could be available for their trip across London to Selhurst Park tomorrow night. 

Conte on Kulusevski 

Conte spoke to the media in a press conference today and provided an update on the fitness of Kulusevski. 

“Kulusevski is not a serious injury but you know we need to monitor it day by day and tomorrow and then we take the best decision,” as quoted by Football.London. 

“I don’t know [if he can face Palace]. We have today and tomorrow to check his situation. 

“We’ll see. The injury is not serious. If the player gives his availability then he could play. Otherwise we have to wait and have patience for the next game.” 

Kulusevski has provided a real ‘touch of quality’ ever since making the switch from Juventus last January. 

It will be a massive boost for Conte if he is available for tomorrow’s clash, especially after they struggled without him last time out. 

The Swedish winger has quickly become one of the most important players in the Spurs side and Bryan Gil failed to impress during his first start under Conte on Sunday. 

Spurs will have to be wary of forcing Kulusevski back too soon though as they will not want him to end up being sidelined on a more long-term basis once again.