Maddison is determined to help Tottenham in their relegation battle after returning from an ACL injury

James Maddison says he is ready to help Tottenham secure the Premier League after his long-awaited return from injury.

The midfielder made his first competitive appearance in 12 months as Spurs drew 1-1 with Leeds, a result which left the North London side in 17th place and just two points above the relegation zone.

Maddison received a huge reception from the fans when he came off the bench and almost won a stoppage time penalty as he looked delighted.

“It’s been a difficult season for Tottenham. It’s really difficult for the fans, it’s really difficult for the players. There are many managers changing. It’s been a season to forget,” said Maddison.

“Not being able to disrupt it and help the club has been difficult.”

‘Straight to Business’

Despite his emotional comeback, Maddison admitted his focus quickly shifted to helping Spurs win the game.

“Once I came out and the first 30 seconds to a minute was over, it was like ‘now I’m on the field we need to get a winner here.’ The good time has passed,” he said.

“It almost coincided with the business. I prefer to be safe and even have fun and build a little, but that’s not the situation we’re in.”

“When you’re on the pitch you forget about anything else when the adrenaline kicks in. When you get your first touch it’s another game and I feel really happy.”

Long Term Recovery After Traumatic Injury

Maddison’s return was a long one after tearing part of his anterior cruciate ligament during Tottenham’s Europa League win over Bodo/Glimt last May.

The England player later suffered a complete injury while playing a friendly match with Newcastle United in South Korea, and even had to undergo surgery.

“In my head it goes back to the semi-final of the Europa League here when I was injured, because I did part of the ACL tear against Bodo / Glimt,” explained Maddison.

“I was told by the doctor that I would not need surgery and reconstruction, then it became clear that it was not strong, it did not heal well and I needed a full operation.”

Maddison admitted that last year was tough mentally but believes he has proved stronger this time around.

“There have been dark days in the past year, especially since the surgery,” he said.

“It’s been a tough year for me mentally but I’m at the end of the tunnel now so I can look back on that fondly because my mind is as strong as it can be after going through that.”

Maddison Helps Spurs Young Players

Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi has praised Maddison’s influence in the dressing room during his recovery, with the midfielder revealing that he has tried to help young and overseas players understand the seriousness of the club’s relegation battle.

“I always try to help,” Maddison said.

“Since I am from this country and know what it means to the fans, I can hear that and express it in a way to the players from other countries or those who do not speak the language well or the younger players who may not understand it as well as I do.”

“I try to help and say whatever I feel will help the team or individual players.”