Players are now returning from international duty and at Tottenham Hotspur, winger Dejan Kulusevski will have his tail up after impressing in a Sweden shirt – having taken on more of a leadership role.
The 23-year-old linked up with Sweden a couple of weeks ago ahead of a new era with his country, in what was Jon Dahl Tomasson’s first matches as manager. His first, a 5-2 friendly defeat to Portugal.
Followed by, a 1-0 win over Albania. Kulusevski got himself an assist in both games, creating two goals for Gustaf Nilsson. Manchester United’s Victor Lindelof captained Sweden in both matches during the break.
Tomasson spoke after Sweden’s 1-0 win over Albania and despite it being a friendly, the former Blackburn boss said Kulusevski gave a speech before the game – in an attempt to get a rise out of his teammates.
Alexander Isak heaps praise on Tottenham star Dejan Kulusevski
One of those teammates, is Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak. On paper, Sweden do have a side that is begining to look exciting – with Lucas Bergvall, a new Tottenham player, is now coming through.
Having been on the receiving end of the teamtalk from Kulusevski, Isak spoke glowingly of the £25m Tottenham man prior to returning to their clubs – telling Swedish outlet Aftonbladet it surprised him.
Kulusevski is emerging as one of the more-experienced players at Spurs despite his age, with the winger quickly becoming a player Postecoglou turns to when he needs something on the pitch. Isak praised him.
“He did well actually, I was a little surprised. Not that he could deliver that speech, but it was still his first speech and he delivered it with gusto,” Newcastle striker Isak said, discussing Tottenham’s Kulusevski.
Can Dejan Kulusevski become a future captain at Tottenham?
Without a doubt. Postecoglou has given Son Heung-min the armband, with Cristian Romero and James Maddison vice captains. But, Kulusevski is on a par with Maddison and Romero in terms of his leadership.
Indeed, before the games against Albania and Portugal, reports in Sweden said that Kulusevski could be given the captain’s armband by Tomasson. Lindelof was his decision, but Kulusevski was considered.
The way he plays, with passion and determination are traits of a captain. If he starts to wear the armband with Sweden it will only hold him in good stead as a contender for captaincy at Spurs in years to come.
There are concerns over Kulusevski’s fitness as players return to their clubs – with Tottenham in action at home against Luton Town on Saturday. A game that Spurs should really be winning, in the race for 4th.
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