James Maddison of Tottenham Hotspur during the Tottenham Hotspur vs Leeds United Premier League match at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London

James Maddison has struggled with injury during pre-season.Imago

James Maddison should be recalled to Tottenham XI vs Liverpool

Correspondent AUTHORITY Football journalist with experience at the Edinburgh Evening News and GRV Media; Masters graduate from the University of Derby. FOCUS Scottish Premiership coverage with specialist knowledge of Rangers, Celtic, Hearts, Aberdeen, and Motherwell. THE INSIGHT Jack utilises a network of club and industry contacts across the Scottish Premiership to deliver verified, high-speed reporting. He provides the tactical and transfer insight behind the headlines to ensure fans get the full story as it happens.

Published on:

15 Sep 2026, 7:35 am

Tottenham Hotspur simply must recall James Maddison to the starting XI for their upcoming Carabao Cup third-round tie away to Liverpool on Tuesday.

The attacking midfielder is yet to start a match this season, but was brought off the bench late on in the 0-0 draw against Everton on Saturday.

While the England international was unable to help Tottenham score their first Premier League goal of the campaign, he could easily play a key role in Tuesday’s cup game.

Maddison has traditionally had an excellent record against the Reds and has consistently scored goals and provided assists.

Given that Roberto De Zerbi’s side are in crisis at the moment, a victory in the cup should be their top priority.

Therefore, Maddison’s inclusion in the starting XI seems an obvious decision the manager must make.

What is James Maddison’s record vs Liverpool?

Maddison has routinely had good games against Liverpool.

Overall, he has faced the Reds 14 times and has netted on four occasions, while also picking up three assists.

Therefore, he is currently averaging a goal contribution every two matches when facing Liverpool.

Given the now heightened importance of the clash and Spurs’ current form, Maddison now has to start.

A victory would add newfound confidence to the club and could give them momentum going into their home tie against Aston Villa on the weekend.

Tottenham told to 'terminate' Richarlison's contract after training ground bust-up

Tottenham need to progress in the Carabao Cup

After their recent performances and results, progression in the Carabao Cup should now be Tottenham’s priority.

Supporters and the club need some type of distraction from their awful Premier League record, and staying in the Carabao Cup accomplishes this.

The tie is no doubt going to be difficult at Anfield. However, Liverpool have not exactly been great in their home tie recently.

Therefore, De Zerbi must play his strongest possible starting XI against the Reds and try to blow the hosts away.

The Carabao Cup is a highly winnable competition for Tottenham this season given their lack of European football, and it should be a focus for the club anyway.

However, it remains to be seen how Spurs will get on at Anfield as they look to return to winning ways.

Roberto De Zerbi