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James Maddison opens up on ‘dark days during rehab’ but Tottenham joy ‘makes it worth it’

James Maddison has shared an interesting detail about his conversation with Roberto De Zerbi prior to his first Tottenham start in 18 months. In his…

Published: Tuesday, 20 October 2026 at 6:30 PM
James Maddison opens up on ‘dark days during rehab’ but Tottenham joy ‘makes it worth it’
Key Things to Know
  • James Maddison said his goal made enduring dark days during rehab worthwhile after an 18-month absence.
  • Maddison scored in the 14th minute off an assist from Mohammed Kudus against Coventry City.
  • Manager Roberto De Zerbi started Maddison after midfielder Conor Gallagher was not deemed fit to play.
The Story in 60 Seconds

James Maddison reflected on his long recovery after making his first Tottenham Hotspur start in 18 months against Coventry City. The 29-year-old midfielder revealed that overcoming dark days during rehabilitation made scoring in the match worthwhile. Maddison opened the scoring in the 14th minute by sweeping a pass from Mohammed Kudus into the top corner.

Manager Roberto De Zerbi selected Maddison after Conor Gallagher was deemed unfit to start. The match also saw Dejan Kulusevski make his return to action as an 87th-minute substitute following his own lengthy injury layoff since May of the previous year.

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