Speaking to Football Insider, pundit Noel Whelan, formerly of BBC Radio Leeds, has made a claim involving Tottenham Hotspur star Lucas Moura.

The Lowdown: Kulusevski shines against Leeds...

Tottenham's winter window signing Dejan Kulusevski's most recent Premier League in their 4-0 win at Elland Road certainly turned many heads in what was a dazzling display.

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The Sweden international, finishing that match as one of Spurs' best performers (SofaScore), netted a fine near-post finish past Ilan Meslier, found 91% of his passes and completed 80% of his take-ons.

Such a display, according to Whelan, could even freeze out Lucas - despite the Brazilian being a top performer under Antonio Conte before his recent injury problem.

The Latest: Whelan makes Lucas claim...

The former Whites striker, speaking to FI, believes Lucas could face a fight to get back in amid Kulusevski's form and the increased competition for places.

When asked if the 29-year-old could now be frozen out by Conte, he explained:

“Absolutely100 per cent.

"When you’re scoring, creating assists, and playing as well as Kulusevski is – you become very difficult to drop.

“That competition for places is really hotting up for Tottenham, especially in midfield and at wing-back. The manager now has the depth he needs to make changes that will allow them to win games.

“Lucas Moura might well be on the bench for a while – but what a player to turn to if they ever need some inspiration in a tough game.

“Conte has some real options and there’s no doubt that Kulusevski has been a great addition for Tottenham. He’s looking like a brilliant signing.”

The Verdict: Disagree...

Going by Lucas' brilliant numbers and just how crucial he has been for Conte, we believe he should walk right back into Tottenham's side upon returning.

According to WhoScored, only Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, Son Heung-min and Harry Kane have a averaged higher over-all Premier League match rating than the South American this term.

As well as this, Lucas towers over all of his teammates in terms of successful take-ons - completing a brilliant 2.1 dribbles per 90 over 2021/2022, adding a directness the side lacks without him.

Lauded as a 'monster' player by Leeds star Raphinha, it will take some superb displays from Kulusevski to leave him out in the cold.

In other news: Conte green-lights move for new top target as Spurs hierarchy pressured to strike agreement, find out more here.