Gallagher’s fitness setback gives Maddison first Tottenham start in 18 months

Conor Gallagher was deemed unfit to start against Coventry City, according to Spurs Web, opening the door for James Maddison to make his first Tottenham start in 18 months. Maddison scored in the 14th minute, turning a difficult return to the starting XI into an immediate contribution.

Spurs Web reported that Roberto De Zerbi had not confirmed Maddison’s place at his pre-match press conference. The outlet said Gallagher’s fitness setback forced the change, with Maddison making his first start since April last year.

The 29-year-old swept a Mohammed Kudus cutback into the top corner from outside the penalty area to put Tottenham ahead. Maddison later told Sky Sports that the goal made the hard days of rehabilitation worthwhile.

“Without going too deep into it, they were dark days during rehab,” Maddison said. “You dream of those moments, those goals, that’s always the light at the end of the tunnel.”

Maddison also said he had spoken with De Zerbi about whether it was the right time to return to the first XI after a stop-start opening to the season. He told Sky Sports he wanted to show what he could bring to the team, and said the manager asked him to play.

Tottenham had another return to celebrate: Dejan Kulusevski came on in the 87th minute for his first appearance since May last year, according to Spurs Web. The outlet reported that supporters greeted the 26-year-old with a loud welcome and cheers for his touches. “The reaction from the fans made it all worthwhile – I never gave up on this moment,” Kulusevski told Sky Sports.

Maddison’s goal and Kulusevski’s return gave Spurs two positive moments after lengthy spells away from the starting XI and pitch respectively. Tottenham’s next test is an away match against Chelsea on Saturday, 24 October, with kick-off at 17:30 BST. Spurs are 16th after seven league games, with six points from one win, three draws and three defeats.