Tottenham prodigy Luka Vuskovic primed for another major career step following his impressive exploits out on loan

Croatia manager Zlatko Dalic has admitted he is considering giving Tottenham youngster Luka Vuskovic his first senior start for the national team. The 18-year-old has made just one senior appearance so far, coming off the bench for three minutes against the Czech Republic in June during World Cup qualifying.

With Croatia on the verge of sealing qualification for their seventh World Cup, Dalic is expected to rotate his squad for Friday’s game against the Faroe Islands, and Vuskovic could be one of the players to benefit.

Dalic said it is the right moment to try something fresh, praising the defensive record so far and highlighting the quality of young talents in the squad. He confirmed Vuskovic will get a chance and is set to return to the youth side afterwards to face Hungary, where he remains a key figure. Dalic reiterated the teenager’s potential and insisted he fully deserves his call-up.

Vuskovic has also been making waves at club level, scoring in a 2-1 league win over Heidenheim in September and helping his team secure a late draw against Borussia Dortmund last weekend. This latest international opportunity now gives him a chance to experience being around Croatia’s elite core, including Luka Modric, Josko Gvardiol and former Tottenham winger Ivan Perisic.

If he stays fit, Vuskovic looks on track to be named in Croatia’s squad for next summer’s World Cup, provided they confirm qualification.

Last month, HSV chief Claus Costa made it clear Tottenham are monitoring the teenager’s development closely. Costa stated that the communication with Spurs, especially with loan manager Andy Scoulding, has been professional and detailed, and confirmed the Premier League side are keeping a close eye on their prospect’s progress. Tottenham are not looking to interfere negatively in the loan but want to ensure the best conditions possible for Vuskovic’s growth.