Dejan Kulusevski facing extended spell on sidelines after new Tottenham development – pundit
Noel Whelan has backed Richarlison for a run in the Tottenham side after his full debut against Fulham.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, suggested Antonio Conte will persevere with the 25-year-old for “two or three more games” with the Champions League group stages getting underway this week.
Kulusevski was dropped for Tottenham’s 2-1 win over Fulham on Saturday (3 September), with £60million arrival Richarlison given a full debut in his stead.
The winger has notched one goal and two assists in the opening six games of this term – while fellow forward Heung-min Son is yet to score after winning the Premier League Golden Boot last term.
Spurs face Marseille, Man City, and Sporting CP over six days starting on 7 September.
Whelan insisted Kulusevski’s dropping will have nothing to do with his performance levels.
He told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury: “I think Richarlison will get a run in the team now.
“When you have a squad like that, with players like that – you can afford to rest players in certain games.
“We know for a fact that it won’t be down to Kulusevski’s performances. It’s just about giving him a break and putting Richarlison in.
“When he’s come on he looked good, so he earned that opportunity.
“This is why Conte wanted a stronger squad with players who don’t necessarily weaken the team when they come in.
“Richarlison is a handful, and he gives Conte options. I think he might get two or three more games in the side – especially with the Champions League games ahead.”
In other news, ex-Tottenham ace claims Harry Kane could pen new deal after Antonio Conte reveal.