Dejan Kulusevski is eyeing a central role as Tottenham Hotspur’s offensive force
Dejan Kulusevski has rapidly become a vital component of Tottenham Hotspur’s attacking prowess. Initially arriving on an 18-month loan deal with an option to buy, Spurs exercised that option last June, securing Kulusevski’s services at N17 on a long-term contract.
Under the guidance of Ange Postecoglou, the 23-year-old has showcased his importance to the team, particularly through his ability to impact games from the right flank. His versatility was evident when he seamlessly transitioned into the number-ten role following injuries to both James Maddison and Giovani Lo Celso.
Kulusevski aiming for a perpetual transition
The Swedish international recently expressed his belief that he has the qualities to thrive in a central role, hinting at a potential transition to a number-ten role in the future. While he has predominantly been deployed on the flanks, his ability to make incisive runs inwards has been highly effective for both his clubs and his national team, allowing him to carry the ball and disrupt opposition defenses.
Although Kulusevski has already demonstrated his capability to pick out line-breaking passes, he sees room for improvement in this aspect as he considers a shift to midfield. Speaking to Lean Osman on Tottenham’s official YouTube channel, Kulusevski said:
“That was my position back then, mezzala (a half winger or wide central midfielder). Nah (when asked if this position at Spurs is now his role). I think that in the future, when I’m going to be at my best – I think it’s going to be in a central role, but for now, you know, you can adapt.”
Kulusevski’s description of his position as a mezzala, which typically denotes a midfielder who operates towards the outside rather than a traditional winger, indicates his perception of himself as a midfielder rather than a pure wide player.
This suggests that he sees himself as someone who can contribute both defensively and offensively from a central position on the field, rather than primarily focusing on providing width and crosses from the flanks.
More Tottenham Hotspur News
Why is Arsenal vs Tottenham clash postponed in April?
“London is green and yellow” – Tottenham star makes a cheeky claim as Brazil beat England at Wembley
Tottenham eye Serie A marksman in summer deal worth at least £60 million
In 26 Premier League appearances this season, Kulusevski has scored only six goals and has a tally of three assists. These are not quite prolific numbers considering his abilities, though he has time and again been influential in the final third for the Ange Postecoglou side.
Kulusevski’s versatility and potential transition to a central position could offer valuable depth and flexibility to the squad. It will be interesting to see how his role evolves under manager Ange Postecoglou and how he integrates into Tottenham’s midfield setup going forward.
