James Maddison has not been the same since returning from his injury last season.
Maddison joined Tottenham from Leicester City last summer for an estimated £40 million, initially made a strong impression.
His performances earned him the Premier League Player of the Month award for August, thanks to a goal and two assists in his first three games.
However, a November ankle injury sidelined him until 2024, affecting his form upon return.
He ended the season with four goals and nine assists in 28 league appearances, a tally that Maddison himself acknowledged fell short of expectations due to difficulties in regaining peak performance post-injury.
As Tottenham prepare for the new season, the former Leicester man has attracted significant attention, with pundit Danny Murphy offering insights into areas where the England international can enhance his game.
Murphy, speaking on talkSPORT, highlighted two crucial aspects where Maddison needs to focus to maximise his impact at Spurs.
Despite Maddison’s clear talent, Murphy believes improving his durability and defensive skills will be vital for his success.
Murphy suggests that Maddison needs to work on his fitness to maintain performance levels throughout matches and improve his defensive responsibilities, especially as a No. 10 in a three-man midfield setup.
Murphy said:
“He is a phenomenal footballer, super intelligent, great balance, can open you up with his passing, can score a goal. Maddison, where he has got to improve to become a Tottenham superstar and actually be the difference in big games, is two things.”
“One is his durability, staying clear of injuries and also coming off in games. Very rarely lasts 90 minutes, Maddison. Maybe it is a physical thing, maybe it’s a mental thing, who knows, but he has got to get better at that.”
“The other thing I would suggest he needs to improve on a little bit is his defensive work, because when you play as a No.10 in a three, you have got to do your defensive work.”
With the addition of promising talents Lucas Bergvall and Archie Gray, who have impressed during pre-season, Maddison will face increased competition for his starting position.
As Tottenham gear up for the new season, Maddison is expected to address these areas for improvement to solidify his role as a key player for Spurs.