‘I like the theatre’ – Tottenham star admits he wants to play the villain at times

James Maddison has revealed that he always loved watching players who had a bit of cheekiness about them such as Paul Gascoigne, admitting that he has a similarly brazen personality which he tries to showcase on the pitch.

Maddison has managed to win over the Tottenham faithful quite quickly, not just because of his quality on the pitch, but arguably also thanks to his personality off it.

The attacking midfielder appears to be a natural leader, which is perhaps why Ange Postecoglou appointed him as one of Tottenham’s two vice-captains, and he also comes across exceedingly well in his interactions with the media.

Maddison has also shown so far at Spurs that he is willing to engage in some banter with opposition supporters, with his interaction with the Bournemouth fans at the Vitality Stadium going viral on social media.

James Maddison likes to play the villain at times

His trademark darts celebration also seems to have hit a chord with the fans, and the 26-year-old admitted that his on-field antics are just a natural expression of his personality.

Maddison told The Evening Standard: “I loved watching players who had a little bit of cheekiness about them…who show their personality when they play. Gazza was a perfect example.

“I remember a clip where the cameras are going down the national anthem and it gets to him and he sticks his tongue out and starts messing around and going all bog-eyed. And I just love that.

“That’s why I like interacting with fans and showing my personality. Me moving the ball out from the corner with the Bournemouth fans – it’s just little stuff like that which I enjoy doing, that keeps me hungry. I like the theatre element of almost being the villain a little bit.”

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In modern-day football, where most footballers tend to behave like robots due to the media training they receive (which in fairness is necessary given the new media landscape), it is refreshing to see players like Maddison who are not afraid to showcase their authentic personalities.