Forget James Maddison, his teammate will spearhead Tottenham top-six push after 97% display

Tottenham Hotspur finally claimed their first three points of the 2026-27 season with a 3-1 win over Coventry City.

James Maddison's return to the starting lineup, plus Dejan Kulusevski featuring from the bench, was almost more uplifting than the victory.

But it was Maddison who opened the scoring with a delightful effort on Monday, 19 October. Of course, it was far from simple. It's Spurs, after all.

Jack Rudoni netted for the visitors just minutes into the second half, before Omar Marmoush and Ben Davies ensured the win stayed in North London.

There was a lot to like about the team's performance, with Roberto De Zerbi likely taking many positives, as the Lilywhites moved out of the relegation zone.

And while Maddison has been seen as Tottenham's saviour in 2026-27, it is the supplier for his goal who is ultimately key to the team's success.

Mohammed Kudus is now Tottenham's most important player

And that player would be Mohammed Kudus, who has been tormenting Premier League defenders ever since he arrived at West Ham United in 2023.

Jay Dasilva, who has been one of the division's most in-form players in recent weeks, could barely handle him up and down the right flank.

In 87 minutes, Kudus completed two dribbles (67 per cent), the most of anyone, 97 per cent of his passes, created two chances, and made seven line-breaking passes [FotMob].

He made five recoveries, two interceptions, two clearances, entered into 10 duels, and won two fouls, and was just an all-round powerhouse against Coventry.

If Spurs are going to climb the Premier League table this season and push for a top-six spot (they have the players to do so), it will have to be with him in the team, one way or another.

Who must Roberto De Zerbi axe vs Chelsea?

Making changes against Chelsea won't be a simple task, but the latest performance still left some to be desired. It wasn't perfect.

One player who may struggle to keep his spot in the side is Dominic Solanke, especially if Marmoush is to play through the middle.

The centre-forward may have grabbed an assist, but he lost far too many duels, failed to hit the target once, and was too focused on throwing his weight around.

And finally, Andy Robertson. He may have had a decent game for 69 minutes, but De Zerbi needs someone who can last a full game. Maybe he plays four centre-backs?