Tottenham Hotspur defender Micky van de Ven has spoken about the emotional experience of watching Dejan Kulusevski return to action after spending more than a year on the sidelines with a serious injury.
Spurs enjoyed a memorable evening on Monday as they defeated Coventry City 3-1 at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, securing their first Premier League victory of the 2026/27 campaign. However, alongside the important three points, Kulusevski’s long-awaited comeback provided one of the night’s most touching moments.
The Swedish midfielder entered the game as a late substitute, bringing an end to his 526-day absence from competitive football. His return was warmly welcomed by Tottenham supporters, who had waited patiently to see one of their favourite players back on the pitch.
For Van de Ven, seeing his teammate finally return was particularly special because he had witnessed the determination and hard work that had carried Kulusevski through such a difficult period.
VAN DE VEN PRAISES KULUSEVSKI’S DETERMINATION
Speaking after Tottenham’s victory, Van de Ven admitted that the midfielder’s return was an emotional moment for everyone who understood what he had endured during his recovery.
The Dutch defender explained that Kulusevski had spent approximately 15 to 16 months working tirelessly to regain his fitness. Despite the numerous challenges along the way, the 26-year-old continued to believe that he would eventually return to the football pitch.
Van de Ven was particularly impressed by his teammate’s unwavering mentality, revealing that Kulusevski never lost faith in his ability to make a comeback.
The defender expressed enormous respect for the Swedish international, praising the commitment and perseverance he demonstrated throughout his rehabilitation.
For Van de Ven and the rest of the Tottenham squad, seeing Kulusevski back in action was a reward for the difficult journey he had experienced. He believes the midfielder deserves every bit of recognition he receives for refusing to give up.
A LONG AND DIFFICULT ROAD BACK
Kulusevski’s absence has been a frustrating period for both the player and Tottenham supporters.
The midfielder suffered a serious knee injury in May 2025 and subsequently faced a lengthy rehabilitation process that kept him away from competitive football for approximately 17 months.
His recovery required patience, discipline and countless hours of work behind the scenes. While the rest of the squad continued competing, Kulusevski had to concentrate on regaining his fitness and preparing for the moment he could finally return.
There were undoubtedly difficult periods during the process, but his determination ultimately paid off when he stepped onto the pitch against Coventry.
His appearance was more than just a substitution. It represented the end of a lengthy struggle and the beginning of another chapter in his Tottenham career.
TOTTENHAM SECURE A MUCH-NEEDED VICTORY
The memorable comeback came during an important night for Tottenham, who desperately needed a positive result after failing to win any of their opening six Premier League matches.
James Maddison gave Spurs the lead with an impressive finish before Jack Rudoni brought Coventry level shortly after the interval.
Tottenham responded positively, with Omar Marmoush restoring their advantage through an excellent strike. Ben Davies then secured the victory with a late goal in stoppage time.
The 3-1 result lifted Tottenham off the bottom of the Premier League table and gave Roberto De Zerbi’s team renewed confidence heading into their upcoming fixtures.
Maddison’s return to the starting lineup after his own lengthy absence was another encouraging development, making the evening even more significant for the club.
A SPECIAL MOMENT FOR THE SPURS FAMILY
Although Tottenham’s three goals and first league victory of the season were important, Kulusevski’s return was undoubtedly one of the most emotional highlights of the night.
Van de Ven’s reaction demonstrated the strong bond within the squad and the respect the players have for teammates who overcome difficult challenges.
Kulusevski’s comeback also offers Tottenham hope that they can gradually regain important players as the season progresses.
After months of rehabilitation and uncertainty, the Swedish midfielder can now focus on rebuilding his match fitness and contributing to the team’s ambitions.
For Spurs supporters, his return is a reminder of the determination required to overcome setbacks. For his teammates, it is a moment worth celebrating.
