MusaTottenham Hotspur have received a major injury boost ahead of their Premier League meeting with Crystal Palace after Roberto De Zerbi confirmed that James Maddison is available for Saturday’s encounter.
The England international had raised concerns after being forced off early in the second half of Tottenham’s impressive 2-0 victory over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. However, the midfielder has avoided a serious injury and is now in contention to feature against the Eagles, alongside the returning Destiny Udogie.
James Maddison receives positive injury update ahead of Crystal Palace clash
Tottenham supporters were left worried about Maddison’s fitness after the playmaker was substituted during the second half of the victory against Chelsea.
There were initial concerns that the midfielder had suffered a muscular injury that could force him to miss upcoming fixtures.
However, De Zerbi has now provided reassuring news, confirming that the 29-year-old is available for selection against Crystal Palace this weekend.
The Tottenham manager revealed that Maddison has followed an adjusted training programme over the past few days to manage his physical condition following the incident at Stamford Bridge.
Although the midfielder did not participate in every full training session alongside his teammates, his recovery has progressed sufficiently for him to be considered for Saturday’s match.
Speaking during his pre-match press conference on Friday, De Zerbi confirmed:
“This week he didn’t work like the other players, but for tomorrow he is available and he is a special player for us.”
The Italian manager’s comments will come as a huge relief to Tottenham supporters, particularly given Maddison’s importance to the team’s creativity and attacking play.
De Zerbi faces decision over Maddison’s involvement against Palace
With Maddison now available, De Zerbi must decide whether to restore the attacking midfielder to his starting XI or manage his workload by introducing him from the substitutes’ bench.
Despite receiving medical clearance, Tottenham’s coaching staff will be keen to avoid putting unnecessary pressure on the England international, especially with several important fixtures approaching.
Maddison remains one of the most influential creative players in the squad, and his ability to unlock opposition defences could prove valuable against a Crystal Palace side looking to frustrate Spurs.
Meanwhile, the availability of Destiny Udogie provides another welcome boost for De Zerbi as Tottenham prepare for their London derby.
Having collected seven points from their last three Premier League matches, Spurs will be determined to maintain their improving form and secure another important victory.
The return of key players could therefore prove crucial as De Zerbi looks to extend Tottenham’s winning momentum and strengthen their position in the Premier League.
Musa
