De Zerbi steadies Spurs as Maddison set for key role

Spurs scrambled over another survival line last season without Dejan Kulusevski. Roberto De Zerbi, following managers Thomas Frank and Igor Tudor, guided Tottenham clear of relegation danger despite back-to-back 17th-placed finishes. There is still optimism at the club, with several long-term injury victims expected back to full fitness in 2026-27, including Kulusevski, James Maddison, Xavi Simons and Mohammed Kudus.

Ex-midfielder Murphy suggested Maddison may need to become the team’s main creative influence. With seven senior England caps to his name, Maddison will probably feel he owes the club after his absence. Murphy added that Maddison always makes things happen, produces magic moments, and carries a proven quality and a noticeable strut on the pitch.

Comparing players, Murphy said Simons has good attributes but not the same qualities as Maddison, who he sees as more influential than Kulusevski.

England

spurs, de zerbi, james maddison, dejan kulusevski, xavi simons, mohammed kudus, relegation, injuries, murphy, england caps