James Maddison facing Tottenham axe – Insider
Ange Postecoglou will not hesitate to drop James Maddison from the Tottenham XI after what happened against West Ham, according to the club’s former scout.
Mick Brown, who remains very well-connected at Spurs and within the game after his time at the club, exclusively told Football Insider that the boss is not afraid to make big calls and is willing to cut his star players from the team if it benefits the team.
Maddison, 27, was withdrawn at half-time of the 4-1 win against their London rivals when the score was 1-1. Shortly after the break, Postecoglou’s rejigged side scored three goals in eight minutes.
As a result, there have been calls for the England international to drop out of the side in favour of providing greater balance to the midfield.
Brown, who has worked closely with managers including a spell as Sir Alex Ferguson’s number two, insisted that the boss will assess his starting XI and opponent on a game-by-game basis to decide whether Maddison will start.
The attacking midfielder had previously been a nailed-on starter and was named in the starting side for all eight of Spurs’ Premier League games this season.
Ange Postecoglou makes James Maddison decision after Tottenham v West Ham
Maddison remains an important player under Postecoglou, but has received criticism for some below-par performances at times this season.
Brown, who has also worked for West Ham, Man United and Aston Villa and has worked extensively with players at the top level, raised questions about the midfielder’s level and insisted Postecoglou would not be afraid to drop him from the side.
“I appreciate what James Maddison can do,” he told Football Insider.
“But it’s almost as if the game has to be run for his benefit, whereas the elite players in his position put their stamp on the game and dictate the way it’s played.
“If it’s a 50/50 battle of a game, he can go missing.
“From what I’ve heard, the manager could look to drop him from the starting XI from time to time.
“He won’t be afraid of making big calls and that is one that he may have to make.
“Postecoglou will be looking at who they’re playing against, and will change his system to suit the game.
“Maddison might be able to take advantage of teams that are weaker in midfield, for example, but in games like the one at the weekend they can leave him out.
“We saw against West Ham the difference that dropping him out of the side can make, and I’d expect to see that on a more regular basis now.”
In other news, Bournemouth star’s stance on following Solanke to Tottenham revealed.
For more Tottenham and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.