Clinton Morrison has delivered his assessment of Dejan Kulusevski following the Tottenham Hotspur forward’s conceding of a penalty in the first half against Brighton.
While Kulusevski has demonstrated outstanding form in recent weeks, contributing two goals and two assists in the last five Premier League matches, he committed a significant error in the match against the Seagulls.
Brighton had already secured an early lead and had the opportunity to double their advantage during the first half. The home side clamored for a penalty as Danny Welbeck was brought down inside the area, with replays confirming that Kulusevski had pulled Welbeck’s shirt.
Clinton Morrison, speaking on BBC Radio Five Live, expressed his incredulity at the winger’s decision, emphasizing, “It’s 100 percent a penalty, I don’t know what Kulusevski’s doing. He pulls him and he tries to let go. He’s pulling his shirt, Kulusevski on Welbeck. It’s a penalty. I don’t know what he’s doing. He’s just pulled it, pulled it. And then he decides, ‘oh, I’m going to let it go’. It’s a penalty. You can’t pull a shirt like that in the box. It’s a stupid decision. I’d go mad. What’s he doing?”
The unfortunate reality is that Kulusevski’s mistake marred what had been a remarkable run of form, particularly as Tottenham sought to secure a top-four position and regain an advantage over Manchester City.
The incidence also highlighted the pressing need for reinforcements in the January transfer window, especially in the center-back position. While this wouldn’t have altered the outcome of Kulusevski’s foul on Welbeck, the presence of a commanding defensive figure might have potentially influenced the outcome of that specific set-piece.
Despite the setback, Kulusevski’s recent contributions underline his significance to Tottenham, and his error serves as a reminder of the team’s imperative need for defensive stability moving forward.
