Tottenham Hotspur manager Roberto De Zerbi believes James Maddison could play a decisive role in the club’s fight to avoid relegation from the Premier League.
Injury crisis deepens at Tottenham
The situation worsened after Xavi Simons was ruled out for the rest of the season with an anterior cruciate ligament injury sustained against Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Forward Dominic Solanke is also sidelined with a hamstring problem, while goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario will miss the clash with Aston Villa.
They join a list of absentees including Ben Davies, Mohammed Kudus, Dejan Kulusevski, Wilson Odobert and Cristian Romero.
De Zerbi backs squad depth
Despite the setbacks, De Zerbi insists Tottenham still have the quality to compete, even against in-form opposition.
“We go to play against one of the best teams in this moment Premier League, but if Tottenham win at Villa Park it’s not a miracle.”
He pointed to attacking alternatives such as Randal Kolo Muani, Mathys Tel and Richarlison as capable replacements.
“They are different but very good players… We are good enough to win the games and to stay up.”
Maddison return offers timely boost
There is, however, some positive news with Maddison nearing a return after a long-term ACL injury. The England international has recently been named on the bench and could feature in the final stretch of the campaign.
“I would like to play with Maddison because he is a special player… I think he can be important in the next three games,” De Zerbi said.