Ange Postecoglou has revealed that Dejan Kulusevski will be out for "at least a few months" with the knee injury he picked up against Crystal Palace last weekend. Spurs were dealt a cruel blow one week before the Europa League final following the news on Wednesday that the Swede had to undergo surgery on the injury.
"We can confirm that Dejan Kulusevski suffered an injury to his right patella in our Premier League fixture against Crystal Palace last weekend," read a statement on the club's official website. "Following further specialist consultation, the midfielder has undergone surgery today (Wednesday) and will commence his rehabilitation with our medical staff immediately."
Speaking ahead of Friday's Premier League encounter against Aston Villa, Postecoglou opened up on Kulusevski's injury after previously admitting that they initially thought it was just a knock.
"Obviously disappointing news. Initially we thought it wasn't too serious but it blew up the day after," explained the 59-year-old. "He's had the surgery which will put him out for at least a few months."
Pressed on whether he'll be back for the start of next season, he said: "We'll see. We've only got basic information at the moment."
Kulusevski has joined fellow countryman Lucas Bergvall in the treatment after the youngster recently sustained an ankle issue in training. Amid hope from Spurs fans that Bergvall could push for a return for next Wednesday's final, Postecoglou has indicated that the teenager will "likely be a while" even though he's now out of his protective boot and taking his first steps back on the grass.
"No, it's still the same sort of timeframe," he admitted. "Never long term but he's just got out of his boot and taking his first step on the grass but he'll likely be a while."
A look behind the scenes & Postecoglou's big decision against Aston Villa. Click here to listen to the latest episode of Gold & Guest Talk Tottenham!
Europa League final
Skyscanner's Everywhere tool lets you be adventurous while also saving money
We have an all-English Europa League final and focus now will be on how fans can get their hands on tickets, but also get out to Bilbao for the match on Wednesday, May 21.
The best way to get to Bilbao will be to fly, although most direct flights are now fully booked.
There are other way sto go though, with different airports an option.
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