Tottenham Hotspur midfielder James Maddison has come under scrutiny from former Manchester United star and current pundit Roy Keane, who has questioned his overall influence at the club.
Maddison has been sidelined with a calf injury since late last month, forcing him to miss five games. Despite his absence, the 28-year-old has been one of Spurs’ most influential players this season, consistently contributing to the team’s attacking output.
Roy Keane on James Maddison
Keane, speaking on the Stick to Football podcast, voiced his scepticism about Maddison’s ability to be a transformative figure for Tottenham. While acknowledging his talent, Keane suggested that the midfielder has not made the kind of impact expected from a player of his stature.
He also pointed to Maddison’s past, noting that he was unable to prevent Leicester City from being relegated and questioning whether he could genuinely elevate Spurs’ level in the Premier League.
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.”
However, Maddison’s performances this season paint a different picture. Since arriving at Tottenham in the summer of 2023 from Leicester for a reported £40 million, he has established himself as one of the team’s key creative forces. His quick adaptation to the squad saw him named vice-captain alongside Cristian Romero.
Statistically, Maddison has been among the best creative players in the league in the ongoing campaign. He ranks fourth in goal-creating actions per 90 minutes (0.90) and is among the top 10 for expected assists per 90 (0.31) and non-penalty goals per 90 (0.55). With eight Premier League goals to his name, he is currently Spurs’ leading scorer, ahead of Son Heung-min, Dominic Solanke, and Brennan Johnson.
Tottenham’s ongoing injury crisis has further highlighted Maddison’s importance to the squad. His return could provide the boost needed to regain form, and Spurs are hopeful he will be fit in time for their upcoming clash against Manchester United as they push to climb the league table.