Journalist Michael Bridge has revealed that he’s heard Ivan Perisic is among the ‘fittest players’ in the Tottenham Hotspur squad.
That is despite the Croatian now being 33 and seemingly in the twilight of his career.
However, Antonio Conte saw fit to bring the 2018 World Cup final goalscorer to north London as his first signing this summer on a free transfer, having been together in Italy winning the Serie A title during the 2020/21 season.
Perisic was converted into a left-wing back by the Italian coach and looks primed to take on that role once again at the Lilywhites.
Given the rigours of the Premier League and Champions League football that Spurs will undertake this term, one can be forgiven for thinking that Perisic may struggle at his age, however, Bridge has now made an encouraging claim on the condition of the 113-cap Croatia ace.
Speaking on Football Daily’s ‘Transfer Talk’ Space on Twitter, Bridge said:
“Ivan Perisic, I’ve got big hopes for. I’m told he’s one of the fittest players in the squad over the last few weeks – that’s despite him being 33. He’ll be an upgrade on Reguilon.”
TIF Thoughts on Perisic and Spurs…
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With Sergio Reguilon seemingly ousted by Conte, Perisic’s conditioning will be paramount to Spurs’ success this season given the distance he will have to cover up and down the left-hand side.
He reached a top speed of 21mph in European matches last season – higher than any Tottenham player, according to writer Alex Mitton.
Perisic has scored 139 goals and created a further 108 throughout his career and while not always as reserved as a wing-back, he will certainly be a threat.
While Ryan Sessegnon is an alternative option, Perisic could also be used further forward given his versatility and could prove quite the gem of a transfer considering he cost nothing at all.