Kulusevski ruled out of Europa League final after knee surgery

Tottenham Hotspur have suffered a significant setback ahead of the Europa League final against Manchester United, with Dejan Kulusevski ruled out after undergoing surgery on a knee injury.

Kulusevski sustained the injury during Spurs’ 2-0 defeat to Crystal Palace on Sunday, after a collision with defender Marc Guehi forced the Sweden international off in the 19th minute. Although manager Ange Postecoglou initially offered a cautious post-match prognosis, further scans revealed the need for surgery on his right patella.

“We can confirm that Dejan Kulusevski suffered an injury to his right patella in our Premier League fixture against Crystal Palace last weekend,” the club said in a statement. “Following further specialist consultation, the midfielder has undergone surgery today (Wednesday) and will commence his rehabilitation with our medical staff immediately.”

Kulusevski joins James Maddison on the sidelines, with the midfielder also ruled out for the remainder of the season last week.

The injury comes as a major blow to Tottenham’s hopes of ending a 16-year trophy drought. The north London club, currently 17th in the Premier League, are set to face 16th-placed Manchester United in the Europa League final on May 21 in Bilbao.

Spurs have not lifted silverware since winning the League Cup in 2008 and last tasted European success in 1984 when they claimed the UEFA Cup.

(Source: AFP)