James Maddison torn apart after ‘alarming’ Tottenham scenes v Frankfurt
James Maddison made a start to forget for Tottenham against Eintracht Frankfurt.
Postecoglou arrived at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium for the first leg of Spurs’ UEFA Europa League last-eight tie with Frankfurt on Thursday (10 April) knowing that he is at risk of being sacked by Daniel Levy.
Therefore, the decision to leave Djed Spence on the bench seemed a strange one, considering the full-back’s fine form in recent months for Tottenham.
This decision, which left Tottenham supporters fuming, backfired as Frankfurt took the lead inside the first six minutes through Hugo Ekitike.
However, it was midfielder Maddison, rather than the defenders, who was criticised for his performance after “alarming” scenes in the opening 17 minutes against Frankfurt.
Maddison blasted as midfielder struggles v Frankfurt
It has been a difficult season for Maddison, who has found himself in and out of the Spurs starting lineup, with a surprise return to Leicester City even mooted.
The Englishman would have arrived in North London ready to prove a point against Frankfurt. However, he didn’t make the start he would have liked, giving the ball away, which resulted in the visitors taking the lead.
| Tottenham 2024/25 | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| James Maddison | 41 | 11 | 9 |
And Matt Law wasn’t impressed by the 28-year-old, with the Daily Telegraph reporter writing via X (10 April), “Maddison’s had a stinking opening 17 minutes here. Giving away the ball and fouls at an alarming rate.”
However, the Tottenham playmaker quickly silenced Law and will now be looking to kick on.
Maddison silences Law after assist against Frankfurt
Despite making a poor start in North London, Maddison quickly showcased his quality by setting up Pedro Porro for the Tottenham equaliser in the 26th minute.
Therefore, the Englishman will be feeling confident and needs to build on this as the match continues against Frankfurt, with Spurs and Postecoglou in desperate need of a lead to take to Germany.
Maddison is certainly a player of quality, and despite his early mistakes, if Tottenham are going to win this game, his involvement will be key.