Tottenham Hotspur player James Maddison demonstrated against Arsenal today why Ange Postecoglou was so anxious to get him this summer.
On commentary this afternoon, Sport expert Matthew Upson gushed about the 26-year-old.
A highly anticipated encounter got off to a fast start, with Arsenal enjoying the better early chances.
Destiny Udogie gave Bukayo Saka too much space in the box, allowing the hosts to score.
The winger did what he typically does in that position and made Tottenham pay, with Cristian Romero deflecting his strike past Guglielmo Vicario.
James Maddison almost gifted Arsenal a second goal, but Gabriel Jesus was unable to capitalize on his error.
However, Maddison demonstrated to Arsenal why Tottenham fans are so enthralled with the England international.
He helped Ange Postecoglou’s side equalize through Son Heung-min.
Maddison shines for Tottenham against Arsenal.
Tottenham grew into the game after Romero’s own goal, and despite David Raya’s incredible save to deny Brennan Johnson on his full debut, he was eventually beaten.
David Raya fumbled at a deep cross, and the ball eventually fell to James Maddison.
He discovered Son, and Upson praised the midfielder, stating, “But then it’s all about James Maddison.” Picks up the ball wide and shields it with his body.
“Gets around [Bukayo] Saka, uses his speed to get to the by-line, then cuts back to Son [Heung-min].”
“There are three Arsenal defenders, all in the same spot, but Son runs right into the middle of all three of them.”
“The cutback from Maddison is like perfection; there isn’t a lot of space to get that ball in.”
“But it’s inch-perfect, the timing’s perfect, the glancing sidefoot with his left foot off to the far side and into the back of the net.”
Tottenham equalized shortly after Arsenal’s penalty was scored by Bukayo Saka, thanks to another set piece from Maddison.
Declan Rice, according to Gary Neville, could be entrusted with keeping Maddison quiet today.
When he didn’t come out for the second half, Maddison took advantage of Jorginho, who had rarely played this season.
