Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi has praised Dejan Kulusevskis attitude during his injury recovery, describing the Sweden international as an example to the rest of his squad. Kulusevski has been working towards a return to action after nearly 18 months on the sidelines, with De Zerbi impressed by the midfielders commitment throughout his rehabilitation.The Tottenham boss confirmed that Kulusevski will travel with the squad for Saturdays Premier League clash against Manchester United, although his involvement will be in a supporting capacity rather than as a player.De Zerbi also provided updates on James Maddison, Micky van de Ven and Jan Paul van Hecke ahead of the trip to Old Trafford.De Zerbi praises Kulusevskis injury recoverySpeaking at his pre-match press conference, De Zerbi singled out Kulusevski for the professionalism and character he has demonstrated while recovering from injury.He is working well. Tomorrow he comes with us for support, De Zerbi said.He is working very well and I think he is an example for everyone.Forget the player but the example of how he reacted to the injury, the character he showed this time was an example and reference to everyone.Kulusevskis continued absence has deprived Tottenham of one of their most creative attacking players, with the Sweden international capable of operating both centrally and on the right flank. Maddison available as Van de Ven and Van Hecke returnTottenham have received positive news elsewhere, with De Zerbi confirming that both Micky van de Ven and Jan Paul van Hecke are available for selection.Van de Ven had suffered a hand injury while representing the Netherlands during the international break, raising concerns about his availability for the trip to Manchester.However, the defender has been cleared to play.They are available to play, De Zerbi confirmed. Micky played four games, 90 minutes and JP just three games. The difference is this.JP yesterday, wife had twins and emotional aspect we have to consider but hes available.James Maddison is also available despite experiencing another minor fitness setback.Hes available but he lost three, four days at the end of last week and start of this, De Zerbi explained.James is a special player for us. Gallagher, as a 10, also hes playing well.Were both frustrated because he wants to be on the pitch. Not a big injury and tomorrow he can play but the Premier League is tough and you need to be fit and in the right condition to run and fight.He is working well and this is the way.The way is to complete three, four, five weeks in a row without feeling pain and problems and then hes a normal player.De Zerbi backs Mateus Fernandes to succeed at SpursDe Zerbi also discussed summer signing Mateus Fernandes, insisting the midfielder remains an important part of his plans despite needing time to settle at Tottenham.Fernandes was among the clubs major arrivals during the summer transfer window, with Spurs investing heavily in their squad.The Italian believes the midfielder has the ability to become a key player but acknowledged that adapting to his new surroundings will take time.Hes a great player, hes one of the best in our team and he needs time to understand the club and come inside the environment of Spurs, De Zerbi said.I have confidence in him. Topics Dejan Kulusevski Manchester United F.C. Roberto De Zerbi Sweden National Football Team Tottenham Hotspur F.C. If you enjoy reading this article, you can help support our independent football journalism by adding 101 Great Goals as a preferred source You Should Also Read Michael Carrick admits Manchester City charges have affected me personally as United boss demands resolution Mitch Fretton 9th October, 2026 Mourinho jokes hell be lucky to see final Man City verdict Nicholas McGee 8th October, 2026 Fantasy Premier League 2026/27: Five players to axe ahead of Gameweek 6 Jon Fisher 8th October, 2026 Fantasy Premier League 2026/27: Five players who will explode over the next three gameweeks Blake Hurst 8th October, 2026 Premier League Predictions: Arsenal and Chelsea get back on track, Man United frustrated while City survive Liverpool storm Jon Fisher 8th October, 2026 The Premier League returns: The five storylines to follow including Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea Jon Fisher 8th October, 2026
