JAMIE CARRAGHER IDENTIFIES A BIG TOTTENHAM PROBLEM AFTER MADDISON’S BRILLIANT RETURN 👀
Jamie Carragher has praised James Maddison following his impressive performance in Tottenham Hotspur’s 3-1 victory over Coventry City, with his return potentially creating a selection headache for manager Roberto De Zerbi.
Maddison marked his first Premier League start in 18 months with a goal, ending a long wait of around 610 days since his previous strike in the competition. The England international looked sharp and confident, helping Spurs secure a much-needed victory.
The midfielder produced a superb long-range finish, taking his total of Premier League goals from outside the box to 21. No other player has scored more than 19, with Kevin De Bruyne and James Ward-Prowse both sitting on that figure.
Although Maddison is still working towards full match fitness, his performance has given De Zerbi a strong reason to consider starting him against Chelsea.
MADDISON’S RETURN COULD LEAVE GALLAGHER ON THE BENCH
Maddison had already shown signs of his quality during Tottenham’s meeting with Manchester United, despite being given only 15 minutes on the pitch.
He also impressed defensively at Old Trafford, recording three tackles — more than any other Tottenham player in that match.
However, his biggest responsibility under De Zerbi is to create chances, score goals and provide attacking inspiration. Against Coventry, Maddison demonstrated exactly why he could be so important to Spurs.
He scored despite registering an expected-goals figure of just 0.1, highlighting the quality of his finish. His only other attempt was blocked.
The playmaker recorded 70 touches in 69 minutes, completed 49 of his 56 passes and achieved an impressive 88 per cent passing accuracy. He also won all four of his duels, according to Sofascore.
Speaking on Sky Sports after the match, Carragher discussed De Zerbi’s decision to start Maddison while Conor Gallagher remained on the bench.
The former Liverpool defender made his preference clear, suggesting that Maddison offers significantly more creativity and flair than Gallagher when playing in the number 10 position.
Carragher’s assessment could strengthen Maddison’s chances of keeping his place in Tottenham’s starting lineup against Chelsea, potentially leaving Gallagher among the substitutes once again.
De Zerbi may also be tempted to retain the attacking combination that delivered against Coventry, provided his players remain fit.
Gallagher still has an important role to play, and the Spurs manager has spoken positively about his abilities. Nevertheless, Maddison and the other attackers who impressed in the victory have given the coach plenty to consider.
MOHAMMED KUDUS ALSO MAKES HIS MARK
Maddison’s opening goal was set up by Mohammed Kudus, who displayed excellent footwork to create the opportunity.
The Ghanaian winger has now provided two assists in his last three appearances. Despite playing in just five matches, he is level with his Tottenham teammates for the club’s highest assist tally this season.
With both Maddison and Kudus beginning to rediscover their best form, Tottenham have fresh reasons to feel optimistic about their attacking prospects under De Zerbi.
Dejan Kulusevski also returned to action as a substitute, making his first appearance in 526 days.
The return of these key attacking players could be crucial as Spurs attempt to revive their season after a difficult start.
Following the victory over Coventry, De Zerbi will hope the performance signals the beginning of a genuine Tottenham resurgence.
Do you agree with Jamie Carragher? Should James Maddison start against Chelsea ahead of Conor Gallagher? 👀⚽
