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Roberto De Zerbi issues James Maddison injury update surprising Tottenham no-show

Influential midfielder has twice been overlooked despite his manager insisting he is fit…

By Sam Tabuteau · Evening Standard

Published: Saturday, 7 November 2026 at 4:06 PM

Key Things to Know

Roberto De Zerbi explained leaving James Maddison on the bench because he only resumed training late in the week.
Maddison remained an unused substitute as Tottenham suffered a 1-0 defeat against Leeds.
De Zerbi opted to bring on 18-year-old Luca Williams-Barnett instead to play in the winger position.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi has clarified James Maddison's fitness status after the midfielder remained an unused substitute during a 1-0 defeat to Leeds. Despite being named in the matchday squad for the past two fixtures, Maddison has not featured since suffering a groin injury against Chelsea last month.

De Zerbi explained he considered introducing Maddison late on, but opted for 18-year-old winger Luca Williams-Barnett due to Maddison's limited training involvement earlier in the week. Tottenham also face injury concerns over forward Mathys Tel, who left Elland Road on crutches in a protective boot.

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Roberto De Zerbi issues James Maddison injury update surprising Tottenham no-show

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