Pundit shares ‘massive’ James Maddison prediction ahead of Tottenham clash v Brentford
We’re delighted to welcome former Scotland right-back Alan Hutton as our exclusive columnist as each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at The Tottenham Hotspur Stadium…
Alan Hutton has tipped Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou to take a “risk” and start James Maddison for Spurs’ clash with Brentford on Wednesday 31 January.
Maddison made his first appearance since November during Tottenham’s 1-0 defeat to Manchester City in the FA Cup fourth round on Friday (26 January), coming on from the bench to replace Rodrigo Bentancur with just over 15 minutes left to play.
The English international didn’t see loads of the ball, only registering six touches and struggling to have a major impact on the game, but Tottenham supporters were delighted to see the 27-year-old back on the playing field after a few months out.
While Hutton does admit that it would be slightly risky to throw Maddison back into the starting XI for Wednesday night’s clash with Brentford, he admits that Postecoglou will at least be considering handing the midfielder a start.
“I think he’s in contention,” Hutton told Tottenham News.
“Obviously, he came off the bench in the last game against Manchester City and the fans were buzzing to have him back and I think he is a massive part of what they do moving forward.
“You’ve obviously got the likes of Sarr coming back, not for tonight, but with Senegal getting put out, he will be back in the squad so they’re getting players back. The back four is back as usual and they’ll start to look strong again.
“So I think there is an opportunity for Maddison to come back in and start, depending on his fitness. They won’t want to risk him, but it’s an ankle injury and he looks ready.”
Maddison has been a revelation in North London since joining Spurs’ ranks from Leicester City during the summer transfer window. In 11 Premier League appearances, the 27-year-old has scored three goals and picked up five assists, including two in the North London derby draw with Arsenal.
Whether or not the England international will be thrown straight back into the Tottenham starting XI remains to be seen, but it will massively help Spurs’ chances of coming away with all three points if the midfielder features in some capacity.
In other Tottenham news, Hutton has offered his verdict on a move Antonio Nusa after a medical issue emerged at Brentford
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