James Maddison could play an important role in helping Tottenham Hotspur improve their attacking performance, according to former Spurs midfielder Danny Murphy.
Maddison has been gradually returning to action after a lengthy absence caused by an anterior cruciate ligament injury. He returned in May 2026 after spending 375 days out and has since been carefully managed as Tottenham look to restore him to full fitness.
The England international has made several appearances from the bench this season, but Tottenham have struggled for creativity and goals. Spurs have failed to score in their opening four Premier League matches, collecting two points from those games.
Murphy believes Maddison offers qualities that are difficult to replicate elsewhere in Tottenham's squad. He described the 29-year-old as a unique creative presence, particularly because of his vision, willingness to attempt difficult passes and ability to influence matches from set pieces.
“Tottenham are crying out for creativity and they've missed him terribly when he's been injured,” Murphy told GOAL. He also suggested that the club's other midfield options do not provide exactly the same combination of creativity and risk-taking.
Maddison's return could therefore give manager Roberto De Zerbi another option in the final third as Tottenham attempt to improve their attacking output. De Zerbi has previously acknowledged that his team needs to improve its final pass, decision-making and willingness to shoot when opportunities arise.
The midfielder's recovery has nevertheless been handled cautiously. Tottenham have previously said Maddison needed a consistent training programme after his serious knee injury, while a subsequent shoulder problem also affected his availability during August.
Tottenham have invested heavily in their squad during the transfer window, bringing in several attacking and midfield options. However, Murphy believes Maddison's particular skill set could complement those players by providing the service they need to make an impact.
Spurs are due to face Aston Villa at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday, with both teams still searching for their first Premier League victory of the season. Whether Maddison starts or makes another substitute appearance will depend on De Zerbi's assessment of his fitness.
For Tottenham, Maddison's return offers another potential source of creativity as the club looks to end its early-season scoring problems. The midfielder's availability will be monitored closely as he continues his recovery and builds up his match fitness.