Dejan Kulusevski gives Tottenham fans reason to be buzzing with social media activity

Dejan Kulusevski has been sorely missed by Tottenham Hotspur as he still recovers from a knee injury.

The Swedish international has missed a whole season of football due to injury, which has also resulted in him being left of out Sweden's World Cup squad.

Kulusevski will undoubtedly be disappointed that he has not been able to recover in time, with a timeline yet to be shared.

However, recent social media activity from the Tottenham star has brought renewed hope that it may not be long before he returns to action.

Kulusevski would provide a welcome boost for Roberto De Zerbi as he begins to shape up plans for his first full season in charge of the North London side.

What hope has Dejan Kulusevski provided for Tottenham fans?

Kulusevski looks to have been given permission from his doctors to start getting active and working out his knee.

Sharing a video on his Instagram story, Kulusevski can be found playing basketball.

Due to the seriousness of his injury, it would be a surprise if the 26-year-old were going against the wishes of medical professionals.

In the clip, the Sweden international can be seen changing direction quickly, a positive sign after a serious knee injury.

He was putting stress on his knee and seemed to accelerate and decelerate with ease, too.

Additionally, with it being a casual two-versus-two game of basketball, it provides Kulusevski with a situation where he can react to real people while also limiting the risk of collision.

The following story also suggested that Kulusevski is back doing at least some work with a football, as he snapped an image in front of a pitch with a ball beside him.

Certainly all positive omens for the Tottenham player ahead of pre-season.

Why Tottenham fans should still keep patience with Kulusevski

While the clip shared by the Swede is positive, fans should still temper expectations ahead of next season.

As seen with James Maddison's return, he was in full training for weeks before he was even handed any minutes on the pitch.

It would not be a surprise to see the same protocol be activated for Kulusevski, even if he is training throughout pre-season.

The 26-year-old's knee injury is a delicate situation, hence his lengthy period on the sidelines, and no risks should be taken.

In time, Kulusevski, though, should become a key player for De Zerbi, with Tottenham fans already knowing the qualities he can bring.