James Maddison has finally returned to action for Tottenham Hotspur, and amid a relegation battle, the timing could not be sweeter.
The Englishman has the ability and talent to change games, and when the going gets tough, those attributes are exactly what are required.
As vice-captain as well, his leadership and voice in the dressing room will also lend a helping hand to Roberto De Zerbi.
However, as the season comes to a close in the next two weeks, the Italian must decide whether Maddison is capable of much more involvement than he had versus Leeds United.
Ahead of Tottenham facing Chelsea, having Maddison be involved for longer periods on the pitch is what everyone wants to happen, and now the decision is up to De Zerbi.
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James Maddison can be Tottenham’s difference maker
Maddison’s introduction against Leeds may have been a “break in case of emergency” situation, with the Lilywhites desperate to restore their lead.
A win against the Elland Road outfit would have provided quite the comfortable gap, with Spurs four points to the good above West Ham.
However, Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s penalty has kept the situation tight at the bottom of the table, and the re-emergence of Maddison may have to be called upon much more.
As seen by last season’s performances, Maddison has the quality to influence games in a positive manner. In 31 Premier League appearances, he secured 16 goal contributions.
He completed 1.2 key passes per match and created six big chances throughout the course of the season as well.
Maddison is also fairly strong in duels, winning 54 per cent of his ground duels last season.
With Tottenham’s relegation chances looking in good stead, they cannot take that for granted, which is why Maddison may need to feature more.
Maddison influence more than just data for Tottenham
Against Leeds, he had limited time to make an impact, but his appearance showed how much influence he can have.
Tottenham were able to slow the game down and remain calm despite pushing for a late winner. This is an underrated trait that allows Spurs to maintain pressure and create more chances rather than frantically search for them.
Additionally, Maddison also should have earned a penalty for Lukas Nmecha’s challenge on him.
Overall, his presence alone brought a calm to the Lilywhites’ play, and if he were fit to feature against Daniel Farke’s Leeds, then he would be fit to face Chelsea.
De Zerbi must make the call to give him more time to have an impact at Stamford Bridge. He may not be fit to start, but surely he is capable of more than just an 85th-minute cameo.
Maddison can be Tottenham’s difference maker in a time where they are desperate to find one.
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