James Maddison has hit back at Roy Keane after the former Manchester United captain criticised his performances ahead of Tottenham’s clash with the Red Devils.
The Spurs playmaker responded in style, scoring the only goal of the game as Ange Postecoglou’s side secured a 1-0 victory at home.
Tottenham’s first home win since November was sealed by Maddison, who reacted quickest to a rebound inside the box. The goal came from a Pedro Porro cross, which led to a blocked volley from Heung-min Son and a first-time shot from Lucas Bergvall. Manchester United keeper Andre Onana parried the effort, but Maddison was on hand to slam home the rebound.
His celebration was telling—Maddison ran towards the camera and made a “silencing” gesture, seemingly aimed at Roy Keane for his harsh pre-match criticism.
After the game, Maddison made a cheeky reference towards Keane, aiming a dig at the former Man United man, saying: “I hope there’s a certain few that enjoyed me being the match-winner today!”
"I hope there's a certain few that enjoyed me being the match-winner today!" 👀🤫
James Maddison on his celebration after scoring against Manchester United… pic.twitter.com/mNu1asU4dU
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) February 16, 2025
What did Roy Keane say?
Ahead of the match, Keane was ruthless in his assessment of Maddison, questioning his ability to be a game-changer for Tottenham.
While acknowledging his talent, Keane suggested that the former Leicester City star has not delivered when it truly matters.
Keane said:
“When is he going to step up to the plate? He got relegated with Leicester. He’ll probably get relegated with Spurs.
“Maddison isn’t bad. He’s not at the darts. But let me tell you, if you think he’s going to come back and get Spurs top six, you’re in cuckoo land.
“He’s a good, he’s a talented player. But if you’re a player in the Spurs dressing room and Madison’s back in the squad, you wouldn’t be looking and going, oh, he’s back today. We’re going to be fine.”
