Tottenham Hotspur earned themselves a spot back in the top four following their victory against Luton Town on Saturday.
It may only last for a matter of hours, but the Lilywhites have leapfrogged Aston Villa into fourth spot.
But it was not all positives for Ange Postecoglou with his side making it difficult for themselves once again at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
And Tim Sherwood thinks he’s spotted something with James Maddison which will is concerning for Spurs fans.
What Tim Sherwood noticed about James Maddison
The England international has already admitted he was left a frustrated figure over the international break.
Having been selected by Gareth Southgate for the friendlies against Brazil and Belgium, the 27-year-old only played 26 minutes in the final game of the break.
And in those 26 minutes, he was able to provide the assist for Jude Bellingham’s equaliser against Belgium.
But he may find himself frustrated once again as he found himself being withdrawn by Postecoglou after 86 minutes.
Speaking on Sky Sports, Sherwood claimed he did not think Maddison looked to be carrying a knock when he was wtihdrawn.
He said: “Maddison doesn’t look injured. That’s a surprise for me. Tottenham fans will be devastated to see him leaving the pitch.”
James Maddison stats vs Luton
It has to be said, it was revealed after the defeat against Fulham that Maddison went into the game having picked up a knock in training that week.
Journalist Alasdair Gold said: “He had a little niggle injury-wise in training during the week. I don’t think it helped him when it came to the game perhaps. But he could’ve done more. I actually felt Spurs looked better when Kulusevski moved into his role.”
It may have been an afternoon to forget for Maddison, but he has shown over the course of the season he is a real bright spark for Tottenham.
Here is a run-down of his display against Rob Edwards’ side.
- 68 minutes played
- 58 touches
- 91% pass accuracy
- 7/9 ground duels won
- 4x was fouled
- 2 tackles
- 1 interception
Statistics via SofaScore.
The 27-year-old has had a difficult season in terms of injuries with the issue picked up back in November keeping him out for months.
Having returned in January, Maddison has shown some improved form of late after proving a goal and an assist in his three games prior to the Luton win.
But it seems as if he is still trying to land some real consistency in a Spurs shirt after the injury issues.
Had Spurs put their chances away inside the first half, perhaps it would have opened up the game even more allowing Maddison some freedom in the middle.
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