Jamie O’Hara ‘uncomfortable’ after what he’s heard about James Maddison at Tottenham
James Maddison has been an integral component of Tottenham this season, but has faced criticism from time to time.
Tottenham secured a crucial three points against Manchester United last time out, with Maddison on the scoresheet for the hosts on his return to the lineup.
Maddison has been on the receiving end of criticism as of late, despite impressing more often than not when he has been called upon.
Tottenham are certainly not enjoying a particularly fruitful season, but the feeling is that some of the frustration is sometimes misplaced and it’s a sentiment shared by Jamie O’Hara.
James Maddison treatment is baffling at Tottenham
On his return, Maddison was one of the best players on the pitch against Manchester United and was able to prove his doubters wrong.
However, that didn’t stop O’Hara from feeling unsettled by the treatment of him, when reacting to the criticism on his personal X account (17 February).
O’Hara said: “What’s with all the Maddison hate right now? I find it uncomfortable.
“He’s been injured and when he’s played at his best he’s been a massive part of our best performances. He’s a guy who can unlock defences and he never shies away from getting on the ball, he’s not the problem.”
O’Hara is right in his words – Maddison simply isn’t the reason behind the regression this season, and if anything, he is the reason why it hasn’t been far worse than it is.
James Maddison key to Tottenham revival
While anger and frustration are warranted given the dull season unfolding, that has to be placed on the right personnel and Maddison simply isn’t the one for that.
The Englishman has never shied away from the challenge and has been the driving force behind the minor successes achieved by Tottenham across the season.
If Tottenham are to put this season behind them, Maddison simply has to be at the forefront of those attempts and criticism needs to stop.
Things would be far, far worse for Spurs had it not been for the quality on show from Maddison when he has featured. As the saying goes, you often don’t know what you have until you lose it.
The longer that unfounded criticism goes on, the more likely Maddison is to act on it and would only serve as a negative for Spurs.