The Lilywhites refuse to gamble on their midfield maestro as fitness concerns prompt a highly cautious approach ahead of the new campaign.
Preseason tours test the squad’s physical resilience under the sun. Risk management remains the primary priority for Roberto De Zerbi. Fresh news officially emerged following an open training session in Sydney. The tactician ruled James Maddison out for the remainder of the tour. The decision comes after the talented midfielder frustratingly picked up a minor physical setback down under.
The North Londoners are exercising ultimate care with his physical recovery. The playmaker missed almost the entire duration of last season with an anterior cruciate ligament injury. Rushing him into exhibition minutes makes zero sense. Speaking to reporters after the session, the manager laid out the reasoning behind keeping his star sidelined.
“James has a small problem,” De Zerbi confirmed. “I don’t want to take any risks, especially in this part of the season and especially for James because he suffered a long injury last season.”
Protective strategy guarantees full focus on crucial London return
Rather than pushing through minor physical issues, the player will focus solely on controlled rehabilitation. The medical staff wants their creative engine ready before resuming intense drills.
The N17 faithful absolutely need him dictating the tempo when domestic action begins. He will resume full group work once the travelling party returns to domestic soil. De Zerbi clearly values the player too much to gamble on his knees.
“He’s an important player for us,” De Zerbi added during his press duties. “It is not the right moment to take risks. We will work again when we are back in London.”