Pundit predicts Tottenham star to miss Ipswich clash amid rumors of discontent
James Maddison, once a key figure in Tottenham Hotspur’s midfield, now faces uncertainty about his future at the club after a series of underwhelming performances. Having joined Spurs from Leicester City for a reported £40 million in the summer, Maddison was expected to be a major asset, adding creativity and flair to the team’s midfield.
However, despite his initial positive contributions, his form has faltered recently, raising questions about whether he will retain his place in the starting lineup for Tottenham’s upcoming Premier League clash against Ipswich Town. Maddison’s influence has been minimal in recent games, with only six goal involvements in 14 appearances this season, which contrasts sharply with the expectations that come with his £170,000-per-week contract.
The situation became more concerning when Maddison was left out of the starting XI in Tottenham’s 4-1 victory over Aston Villa on November 3. Although he played in the Europa League match against Galatasaray, his performance was lackluster, and he was substituted in the second half looking visibly frustrated. This decision from manager Ange Postecoglou has only fueled speculation that Maddison’s place in the team is under threat. Former Spurs scout Bryan King has suggested that Maddison’s recent form and lack of impact could see him miss out again for the Ipswich game. King pointed out that Maddison seemed unhappy when he was substituted against Galatasaray, further highlighting the frustration the player is experiencing.
While Maddison’s technical ability and vision have always been apparent, he has struggled to make a significant impact in matches, leading many to believe that Postecoglou may prefer a more defensive-minded option in midfield. Players like Pape Matar Sarr have been impressing in recent weeks with their steady and composed performances. Sarr’s style of play, which is more calculated and slower-paced, appears to complement Postecoglou’s tactical approach more effectively than Maddison’s more direct, attacking style. The 21-year-old Senegalese midfielder has been able to balance defensive responsibility with moments of creativity, offering a more stable option in the middle of the park.
Given this, Maddison now faces a real challenge in regaining his place in the starting XI. His performances in the upcoming weeks will likely determine whether he remains a regular part of Postecoglou’s plans or if he will find himself spending more time on the bench. The competition for places in Tottenham’s midfield has become fiercer, and with players like Sarr, Yves Bissouma, and even Oliver Skipp all pushing for starting spots, Maddison will need to step up and show the same level of consistency and impact that he displayed in the early part of the season. The decision to leave Maddison out of the starting lineup against Aston Villa seemed to be a tactical one from Postecoglou, and it may signal that the manager is looking for a more balanced approach in the midfield rather than relying heavily on Maddison’s creativity.
As the season progresses, Maddison’s future at the club could be shaped by his ability to adapt to Postecoglou’s methods and prove that he can be a consistent contributor. If he fails to deliver the kind of performances expected from him, there could be serious discussions about his role at Spurs, and a potential move away from the club could be on the horizon. Tottenham’s squad is deep and competitive, and Maddison must quickly find his best form if he wants to retain a prominent role in the team. The upcoming match against Ipswich Town could be a pivotal moment for the midfielder, as he seeks to convince Postecoglou and the fans that he is still an indispensable part of the squad.
