Medical expert issues verdict on ‘worrying’ Ivan Perisic development ‘derailing’ Tottenham move
Inter Milan star Ivan Perisic has suffered a “worrying” calf injury – but it is not likely to deter Tottenham from pursuing his signature.
That is the view of injury expert Ben Dinnery, who runs the Premier Injuries site and has a background in medicine and data analysis.
ESPN reported last Friday (20 May) that Spurs are exploring the possibility of snapping up Perisic, 33, on a free transfer.
The Croatian winger is out of contract next month and has close links with Antonio Conte having won Serie A alongside him in 2020-21.
But Inter revealed via their club website on Tuesday (22 May) that he had a “pulled right medial gastrocnemius” muscle in their final-day clash against Sampdoria.
Dinnery, however, claims that the injury will not stand in the way of a move to North London.
“In terms of the mechanism of injury, it’s a worry,” he told Football Insider’s Adam Williams.
“Perisic has started 37 of 38 league games for Inter. Last season his availability was around 90 per cent. He is very robust and can tolerate high demand and high load.
“When you see a player like that being stretchered off, that is always a concern.
“You always look for different indicators and triggers when a player suffers an injury. Some might have a gradual feeling of discomfort, whereas others have an instant sharp pain.
“The latter fits with this one because it was an explosive, quick movement. When you’re contracting those muscles and you feel that sharp pain, there is greater potential for a more serious injury.
“Could it derail a transfer? You don’t ultimately pass or fail a medical. It’s a list of recommendations based on a player’s history.
“This may be a consideration based on the severity. However, it won’t definitely rule it out.”
Perisic’s 49 appearances in 2021-22 yielded 10 goals and nine assists.
Spurs’ 5-0 victory over Norwich City last Sunday (22 May) ensured that he will play Champions League football next season if a deal can be agreed.
In other news, pundit argues that Antonio Conte will sign “long-term” Tottenham contract on one condition.