James Maddison marked his first competitive start for Tottenham since May 2025 with a goal as Spurs beat Coventry 3-1 on Monday, October 20, to secure their first Premier League win of the 2026-27 season.
The midfielder opened the scoring just 14 minutes into the game, making an immediate impact after returning to the starting XI.
Speaking to Sky Sports after the win, Maddison insisted that he still has plenty to offer Tottenham and believes he can help the club in the Premier League.
“I have so much more to give for this club,” he said. “I’m 29 and I still have plenty of years left. I have self-belief and plenty of qualities that can help us in this league.”
Maddison explains Tottenham starting role
Maddison also revealed that he had spoken to manager Roberto De Zerbi during the week about returning to the starting XI.
“I spoke to the gaffer about that this week and feeling like it was the right moment for me to go back into the starting XI after a stop-start start to the season.”
The 29-year-old had not made a competitive start for Tottenham since May 2025, making Monday night’s game an important opportunity to show what he could offer for the team.
Maddison took that opportunity by scoring the opening goal against Coventry, helping Tottenham get off to a positive start as they looked to end their difficult run in the Premier League.
The midfielder was also keen to demonstrate his qualities after spending so much time away from the starting XI, with his goal helping Spurs take an important step forward.
Maddison’s desire to show what Tottenham have missed
“I just wanted to play well and to show my qualities and what the team has missed in the last 18 months since my last start. The gaffer asked me to play and wanted to enjoy watching me from the side, so hopefully I did that. A goal like that is always nice.”
Coventry equalised a few minutes into the second half, before new signing Omar Marmoush restored Tottenham’s lead just nine minutes later with his first goal for the club.
Ben Davies then scored deep into stoppage time to seal a 3-1 victory for De Zerbi’s side.
The result ended Tottenham’s wait for a Premier League win this season, having recorded three draws and three losses in their opening six matches. Their only victory had come against Charlton in the Carabao Cup.
With Maddison back in the starting XI and on the scoresheet, Tottenham will hope the midfielder can build on his performance as they look to improve their league form.
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