Former Parma coach Roberto D'Aversa is full of praise for Tottenham attacker Dejan Kulusevski.

The Swede is on-loan at Spurs from Juventus and played for D'Aversa at Parma.

He told TMW: “I saw him during the semi-final of the Primavera championship in Parma, it was played at the Tardini and I took the opportunity to follow him live. There were already many clubs behind Dejan, for example Cagliari which had already made an important offer to buy him.

"In that case the club was also good, we took advantage of the good relations that existed between the clubs and the one with the then sporting director of Atalanta Sartori with whom we often spoke for some young people.

"With me in Parma he could have played more than in other teams, this made the difference. And the moment he played he amazed everyone. In building the team we had placed him in midfield. But since I needed a left-footed offensive player who played with his foot reversed, after two training sessions I bet on him.

"Right from the start he caught the eye for the strength, determination and desire he had to get there. He never wanted to lose, not even in training. I often and willingly teased him because I wanted him not to lose balance. I have to say that he did a great championship, above expectations.

"I don't remember a player who comes out of Primavera and is immediately so decisive in Serie A."