Postecoglou 'not surprised' by Maddison's response to Keane after Spurs goal

Ange Postecoglou was not surprised by James Maddison's response to Roy Keane after the Ireland legend criticised the Englishman, who has endured a difficult season marred by injuries and poor form, for not being a difference-maker for Tottenham.

"People say Maddison's the man. When is he going to step up to the plate? If you're a player in the Spurs dressing room and Maddison's back in the squad, you wouldn't be looking and going 'He's back, we're going to be fine," Keane said on Maddison while speaking on 'The Overlap' podcast. "England have a squad of 300 and he can't even get in that."

But after scoring the match-winning goal on his Spurs return in the Premier League struggles battle against Man United, Maddison could not resist firing back at the former Red Devils midfielder. "I wanted to do my talking on the pitch today," the 28-year-old told 'Sky Sports' after Sunday's win. "It's about responding in the right way and I did. I was the match-winner, so I'm really delighted."

Having been asked his thoughts on the situation Postecoglou said: "I didn't see his celebration so I can't comment on it. But it doesn't surprise me that Madders (Maddison) didn't accept what was being said about him and threw a shot back over the bows. It's great to have him back. He's a quality player. He got frustrated when he got injured. He and all the other guys were desperate to contribute."

 

February 17, 2025