Tottenham news: Ivan Perisic impressed in Croatia’s 4-1 World Cup win over Canada and could give Antonio Conte an attacking alternative
Ivan Perisic grabbed two assists in Croatia’s World Cup victory over Canada (Image: (Photo by Dale MacMilan/Soccrates/Getty Images))
Many associated with Tottenham would likely label Ivan Perisic as a consistent performer since his arrival in the summer from Inter and that is likely the best way of describing the 33-year-old.
No Perisic performance in Lilywhite has particularly caught the eye but at the opposite end of the spectrum it’s safe to say no display has left a sour taste in the mouth of any Spurs fans.
Since arriving from Inter, Perisic has quite simply got about his business and has proved to be one hell of a coup on a free transfer from Antonio Conte.
Despite his age, Perisic has shown no sign of slowing down and he is currently competing in his third World Cup with Croatia after playing a significant role in guiding his country to the final four years ago against France.
Although at domestic level, he has been deployed at wing-back, Perisic remains the go-to option on the left of the Croatia attack and after a drab display in their group stage goalless draw with Morocco, he returned to his very best on Sunday against Canada.
Alphonso Davies headed Canada into an early lead, but Perisic played a significant role in Croatia’s come back supplying Andrej Kramaric with both of his goals as Zlatko Dalic’s side now sit top of group F following a 4-1 win, with Belgium to come in their final group stage fixture.
His two assists on Sunday added to the seven he has for Spurs this campaign and have placed him in esteemed company alongside some other footballing greats regarding the World Cup. Only Lionel Messi (12) and Cristiano Ronaldo (10) have more goal contributions than Perisic (nine) of players currently active in football.
Perisic also got the opportunity to play in the frontline for Spurs when their injury crisis in attack forced him to play up front against Liverpool. Although Conte’s side lost the game, the Croatian was a lively spark in front of goal hitting the wood work twice.
Dejan Kulusevski and Richarlison, who were absent at the time, are available once again and will likely be able to support Harry Kane and Son Heung-min from December 26 when Spurs return to Premier League action against Brentford.
The likelihood of Perisic featuring in Conte’s desired front three again may seem slim but the recent performances in front of goal for Son, with the South Korean star scoring just three Premier League goals this season, may see Perisic given another opportunity in attack if Son’s lack of goals and assists continues after the World Cup break.
