Maddison's return helps Spurs end 18-month win drought

James Maddison returned to the Tottenham starting line-up for the first time in 18 months, scoring a stunning 20-yard finish in a 3-1 victory over Coventry City — the club’s first Premier League win of the 2026 season ^[1]. The 29-year-old, who missed most of last season with an ACL injury and then fractured his shoulder in the opening match of 2026, made an immediate impact, delivering the goal that sparked relief and joy among Spurs fans.

His first touch was a moment of pure theatre: a trademark imaginary dart throw before kissing the club badge, a celebration that echoed his long-awaited return to form ^[1]. The goal came in the 14th minute after a swift pass from Mohammed Kudus, with Maddison’s right-footed strike arcing high past Coventry keeper Carl Rushworth.

Spurs had won just 12 of 57 Premier League games since Maddison’s last top-flight goal — a 1-0 win over Manchester United in February 2025 — and averaged less than a point per game since his last start in April 2025 ^[1]. The victory, while narrow in spirit, was a breakthrough: their sixth win in 37 home league games and only their fourth league win in 2026.

The game saw other emotional returns: Dejan Kulusevski came on as an 87th-minute substitute after 526 days out with a knee injury, earning a rapturous reception ^[1]. Omar Marmoush also scored his first goal for the club with a curling effort that left Rushworth helpless.

Roberto de Zerbi praised the duo’s return, noting their impact on the dressing room atmosphere ^[1]. He acknowledged the win was only a start, with a tough trip to Stamford Bridge against Chelsea looming. Still, the sight of Maddison and Kulusevski back in action has given the team a tangible lift after months of frustration.

Maddison said he spoke with De Zerbi about returning to the starting XI and wanted to show what the team had missed ^[1]. His energy, positivity, and relentless probing were evident before he was substituted after 69 minutes. The story was first reported by BBC News.