Tottenham are under scrutiny following a string of poor results that have left the club in 10th place in the Premier League, raising concerns about consistency and key player performances.
One player who has come under the spotlight is midfielder James Maddison, with former Spurs scout Bryan King expressing concerns over his recent form.
King highlighted Maddison’s inconsistency, urging the 27-year-old to elevate his game and maintain a higher performance standard.
While acknowledging Maddison’s moments of brilliance—such as a spectacular free-kick goal against Aston Villa earlier this month—King criticised these flashes of excellence as too infrequent.
He called on the English midfielder to focus on delivering steady contributions to help the team navigate through challenging periods.
King also raised broader concerns about the strength of Tottenham’s squad, questioning whether the depth and quality of their midfield are as strong as many perceive.
He emphasised the need for influential players like Maddison to step up and lead during crucial moments in the season.
Speaking to Tottenham News, the pundit said:
“You need your players, and you need a good squad.
“However, I’m not sure Spurs’ squad is as good as people think it is. They haven’t exactly set the world alight this season.
“Five or six of the midfielders are international players. Maddison has got to start improving and get a hold of himself.”
“One week he’s playing like an England international and the next week he doesn’t even get a mention. I’d say to Maddison that you’re a highly paid professional, so start doing your job.”
Despite some recent struggles, Maddison’s overall contributions this season have been notable. In 11 Premier League appearances, he has recorded three goals and three assists.
However, his recent playing time has been limited, with the midfielder starting only one of Tottenham’s last four matches across all competitions.
As Spurs gears up for a challenging away fixture against Manchester City, Maddison has an opportunity to respond to his critics and make a significant impact.
A strong performance in such a high-stakes game could not only help silence doubts but also provide the spark needed to reinvigorate the team’s campaign.
Ange Postecoglou will be counting on Maddison to rise to the occasion, showcasing the influence and quality expected from a player of his calibre.
With Tottenham looking to regain momentum, Maddison’s role in driving the team forward will be more critical than ever.
