James Maddison has spoken to the media after coming on as a substitute for the second Tottenham game in a row.
The attacking midfielder has missed nearly the full campaign due to an ACL injury he suffered last summer.
After being an unused substitute for three matches in a row, Maddison finally made his first appearance of the season last week, coming on as a substitute in Tottenham’s 2-2 draw with Leeds.
Roberto De Zerbi waited until the 68th minute to bring on the 29-year-old against Chelsea, and he made a huge difference after coming on, but he was not able to stop his side from falling to another defeat in West London.
James Maddison says it is his job to create chances for Tottenham
The England international was at the heart of most good things Spurs did in the final 20 minutes of the game, and he himself had a big chance to equalise after combining brilliantly with Richarlison, only for his shot to be blocked.
Tottenham looked much more threatening in the final third after Maddison came on, but he admitted that he is having to take things slow, as another ACL injury could be catastrophic for his career.
When asked about the creativity he offered when he came on, the midfielder told Sky Sports: “It’s my job, it’s what I’m paid to do. I haven’t played this season, but when I do, it’s what we have to do. Hopefully, when I’m on the pitch, I have to try to help the team.
“Anyone who has worked in football or has had this injury, it’s not easy to drop back in. It would be catastrophic for my career if something were to happen.”
Roberto De Zerbi admits Maddison decision is out of his hands
Despite the risk involved for the former Leicester man, some Tottenham fans may want him to start against Leeds, given what is at stake.
De Zerbi has revealed that the medical department does not want Maddison playing more than 20 or 25 minutes at this stage of his recovery.
However, should Spurs find themselves trailing Everton at half-time, one would expect the Italian to throw on the attacking midfielder.