Bryan King has speculated that James Maddison might have picked up an injury during Spurs’ 4-1 win over West Ham at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday (19 October).
The ex-Spurs scout can’t understand why Ange Postecoglou would’ve replaced the midfielder with Pape Matar Sarr for tactical reasons.
Maddison was substituted at half-time, with Andy Gray mooting a “problem” for Postecoglou (via beIN Sports, 19 October, 1:34 pm).
Postecoglou explained that the substitution was a tactical one (via The Standard, 19 October).
However, King – speaking exclusively to Tottenham News – isn’t sure how true that is.
“Was it really a tactical change, or was he injured?” King said.
“If it was a tactical change, then well done Ange Postecoglou. However, I can’t imagine it would’ve been, I don’t think Pape Matar Sarr replacing Maddison would’ve been the move, Maddison set up a goal.
“For me, he didn’t look 100 per cent, maybe there is an underlying injury issue. There shouldn’t be, he has been off for the past couple of weeks, he should’ve been raring to go.”
James Maddison picks up injury for Tottenham v West Ham?
Maddison wasn’t at his best against the Hammers. However, he did set up a goal and looked bright at moments during the first half.
Therefore, it was a surprise to see him replaced at the break. Although Postecoglou has explained the decision was tactical, he might not want to disclose the full reason for the substitution.
While it might not necessarily be an injury concern, it was strange to see the Australian make such a bold decision at half-time. However, whatever the reason, it was a decision which paid off.
Maddison hasn’t had the greatest few weeks, and if this was a tactical decision, it is yet another reminder that he needs to up his game.
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