Roberto De Zerbi explains James Maddison bench decision in Leeds defeat

Tottenham Hotspur manager Roberto De Zerbi explained his decision to leave James Maddison on the bench during a 1-0 defeat to Leeds United. Despite trailing and needing an equalizer, De Zerbi opted to bring on youngster Luca Williams-Barnett instead of the England playmaker late in the match.

De Zerbi revealed that Maddison had only returned to group training shortly before the game, making his inclusion a physical risk. He also noted that Williams-Barnett offered greater pace and one-on-one ability to replace a tiring Mohammed Kudus on the flank.