Kudus returns to Tottenham action after 257 days on sidelines

Ghana forward Mohammed Kudus ended a lengthy spell on the Tottenham bench on Wednesday, returning to the starting lineup for the first time in 257 days as Spurs took on Liverpool in the Carabao Cup third round at Anfield. The 26-year-old featured for 75 minutes in Roberto De Zerbi's side, showing encouraging signs despite the team's eventual 3-1 defeat.

Kudus's absence from the starting XI had raised concerns about his match fitness and role in the side since joining Tottenham. His performance against the Premier League champions demonstrated he remains a threat in attack, with the Ghanaian international creating several promising moments during his time on the pitch. Most notably, he came agonisingly close to opening his account for the evening in the 32nd minute, latching onto a loose ball in the Liverpool penalty area, only to send his effort over the bar from close range when a goal seemed inevitable.

Though Tottenham's cup exit represents a setback for De Zerbi's reshaped squad, the manager will likely view Kudus's display as a positive development. The midfielder-forward's return to regular football comes at a critical time, with international football on the horizon.

Preparation for Ghana's Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers

Kudus's performance carries particular significance for Ghana football fans and the Black Stars coaching staff. National team coach Carlos Queiroz is preparing his squad for two crucial 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Côte d'Ivoire and The Gambia, matches that will shape Ghana's path to the continental championship. Having Kudus fit and regular in club action strengthens the side's prospects in these fixtures, as the Ghanaian has consistently been a valuable asset for his country.

The timing of his return to match fitness could not be better. International break schedules mean that players who gain minutes at club level heading into international fixtures typically carry momentum into their national team assignments. Kudus's 75-minute outing against Liverpool, while cut short, provides him with the platform to build confidence in the coming weeks before international duty calls.

The road back to form

The 257-day gap between starts speaks to the challenges Kudus has faced since arriving at Tottenham. Injuries, competition for places, or other factors have limited his opportunities under previous management, but De Zerbi's appointment signals a potential fresh beginning. The Italian manager's willingness to field him from the off against quality opposition suggests he sees value in the Ghanaian and may be planning a more prominent role for him in the season ahead.

While Kudus was unable to find the back of the net against Liverpool, his overall contribution was noted. The work rate and positioning he displayed indicate that his absence from starting football has not fundamentally diminished his technical abilities. For Ghana, this is encouraging news as they seek to maximise their talent pool for qualifying matches that could define their continental prospects.

As the domestic season progresses and international commitments loom, Kudus will be keen to capitalise on this opportunity to prove his worth at Tottenham whilst maintaining his importance to the Black Stars.