James Maddison’s Injury Overshadows Tottenham’s Pre-Season Draw

Tottenham’s James Maddison is facing a new injury worry. He was taken off the field with a knee problem during a 1-1 pre-season friendly against Newcastle United in Seoul.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Maddison came on in the 75th minute. But ten minutes later, he fell down, clearly in pain, holding his right knee. He had to be taken off the field on a stretcher. Coach Thomas Frank said it was a “brutal moment” and feared Maddison might have a “bad injury”. This was especially hard to hear because Maddison had only just returned from another knee injury. He missed out on the Europa League final in May because of it. This new setback is particularly tough for him and Spurs supporters.

LATEST ON MADDISON AND SPURS

Maddison’s value to Tottenham was evident last season. Even with some injuries, he scored nine goals and provided seven assists in 31 matches. His absence last year hurt Spurs. They came seventeenth in the Premier League, securing Champions League football only by winning the Europa League. Now their pre-season is troubled, not just because of Maddison’s injury. Captain Heung-Min Son has announced he wants to leave Spurs, and got a guard of honour in Seoul ahead of his expected exit, as reported in a recent update. The 1-1 draw against Newcastle was supposed to be Son’s farewell, but Maddison’s injury became the main news. Many fans and players were visibly upset.

WHAT COMES NEXT?

Spurs haven’t given a full update on Maddison’s injury yet. But early signs suggest he might be out for a long time. Tottenham begins their Premier League campaign soon against Burnley. Burnley is back into the Premier League after finishing in the top-2 in the Championship, level on points with Leeds United. If Maddison is out for a long period, coach Thomas Frank might have to change his plans. He’ll need to count on the squad’s depth. Tottenham must now plan for life without their captain, Son Heung-min, which is adding additional pressure to the upcoming season. The next updates on Maddison will be key for Spurs’ hopes in the upcoming season.