James Maddison marked his first Tottenham start in nearly 18 months with a stunning goal that helped Spurs to their first Premier League win of the season. The playmaker was influential in the 3-1 victory over Coventry in north London, opening the scoring with a curling strike from range after 14 minutes. The result, set up by Mohammed Kudus, moves Roberto De Zerbi's side off the foot of the table.
The 29-year-old, who has two years left on his Spurs contract, returned toward the end of last season after recovering from an ACL injury, but numerous setbacks delayed his full return until now. "I have so much more to give for this club," Maddison told Sky Sports. "I'm 29 and I still have plenty of years left. I have self-belief and plenty of qualities that can help us in this league."
Spurs spent £334m on new signings in the summer after narrowly avoiding relegation, but they have struggled to have the desired impact. Maddison said he spoke to De Zerbi about feeling it was the right moment to return to the starting XI after a stop-start season. "I just wanted to play well and to show my qualities and what the team has missed in the last 18 months," he said.
Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher backed Maddison to have a big impact on the season, describing him as a natural character who lifts people around the dressing room. "He has that football arrogance that I like in players," Carragher said, adding that it will be interesting to see where Maddison fits given the number of attacking options, especially with Kulusevski back.
Source: Sky Sports Champions League · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing