As James Maddison readied himself on the touchline at Old Trafford, the task could not have been simpler. Turn Tottenham’s dominance into three points with a moment of magic.
It has been a frustrating start to the season for Maddison, who has yet to return to full fitness after a year out with an anterior cruciate ligament injury.
Seemingly uninhibited by his recent fitness woes, which have forced him to train through pain, Maddison won all four duels he competed for in just over 20 minutes, including three tackles as Spurs wrestled back control from United despite being a man down.
James Maddison could make his first start of the season for Tottenham against Coventry
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Maddison’s creativity has never been in doubt, but it was unclear when or if the 29-year-old would ever have the confidence to fully commit his body after struggling with injury for the last 18 months.
After an impressive cameo and an extended break to recover - Spurs will have had nine days to prepare for Coventry - Maddison now looks primed to start as the creative fulcrum of Spurs’ attack.
Spurs have been reluctant to risk Maddison so far. But after a winless start to the season, De Zerbi may now be willing to throw caution to the wind.
Tottenham have lacked a decisive edge this season, and an expectant home crowd will be less forgiving of the sort of wastefulness on display against United.
Spurs have started games ferociously this season but have been unable to capitalise in the final third, registering the lowest conversion rate (2.6%) of any Premier League team.
Spurs are a desperately imperfect team, lacking confidence and clarity, but they are better for having Maddison’s skill and composure. Now is the time for De Zerbi to let him loose.