Tottenham Hotspur are flying after that thunderous win against West Ham at the weekend as the Lilywhites gave a performance that the supporters at White Hart Lane can be proud of and beaming about; however, one thing that everyone has been talking about beyond three points is Ange Postecoglou’s decision to sub out James Maddison at halftime.
Despite playing an important role in the first half with his assist for Dejan Kulusevski’s goal and Spurs equaliser, he was taken off by the Greek-born coach and replaced by Pape Matar Sarr as Ange Postecoglou decided to bring some stability in the middle of the park.
Maddison frustration and lack of intent could impact his Tottenham future
And football pundit Tony Cascarino insists that the England international was visibly upset with the head coach’s decision and also pointed out the fact that Maddison was disinterested in giving post-match interviews despite the thumping win, showing more signs of frustrations with the substitution move.
He also went on to suggest that Madison will be facing hurdles to secure a place in the starting eleven at White Hart Lane.
While the former Leicester City maestro is known for his creative abilities from the middle of the park, his lack of intent and grind. If he wants to play under Postecoglou, he might soon need to start adapting and being more of a dynamic presence in the midfield.
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Speaking on The Game Football Podcast, Cascarino said:
“He made a big call at half-time, Postecoglou, taking Maddison off. It felt like Maddison was in the way in midfield. I was told afterwards that Maddison wasn’t happy, the TNT people were there and they said he wasn’t happy Maddison, he just stormed, I wouldn’t say stormed, he walked past them and didn’t want to interview.
“He’s fighting for his career at Tottenham after a year really. I say his career as a first-team starter in their best XI. I’m not sure he’s convinced by Maddison’s role in the team. He’s a great footballer, technically superb, but he has to be the host A man, and he isn’t now.”
Maddison should have an opportunity to impress Ange later today when Spurs host AZ Alkmaar at White Hart Lane, as they would look to continue their European journey on a similar high.
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Do you think James Maddison is more of a liability in Spurs midfield under Ange Postecoglou’s system? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
