James Maddison is determined to turn the disappointment of missing out on the Euros into motivation to deliver his best performance this season.
Maddison struggled toward the end of last season, with his form taking a significant dip after returning from an injury layoff. However, the summer break appears to have rejuvenated the 27-year-old, as he looked back to his best in Tottenham’s opening Premier League game against Leicester City, where he was lively and threatening throughout.
Maddison, who provided the assist for Tottenham’s only goal with a perfectly placed cross, has admitted that he is eager to prove himself to his teammates, the coaching staff, and the fans. When asked if the summer’s setbacks are driving him, the attacking midfielder told The Standard: “Of course. Setbacks are set-ups for comebacks—I’ve seen that quote somewhere! It’s all about how you deal with adversity. My support network—my parents, partner, agent, the manager—wouldn’t let me dwell on it. I knew I’d come back hungry. I knew I’d be ready by game one to have a good season. And I want to show the gaffer, the fans, my teammates that I can consistently be at my best. I couldn’t quite find that after my injury [last season], but it’s always about how you respond.”
Maddison admitted it was tough to accept that he wouldn’t be heading to Germany, but he used the summer break to work hard and ensure he was sharp for the new season.
The England international continued: “I was devastated to miss out on the Euros, but my support network, especially my dad, wouldn’t let that define me. I’m hungry to do well this season.
“My dad wouldn’t let me be upset—and he was upset for me, like any parent would be. He wanted me to use it as motivation, to remind me that I can be at that level.
“I trained really well. I trained well with England too—we had the warm-up game against North Macedonia, and I felt I played well in that, so it was disappointing to miss out. I had a good chat with Gareth about it. All of that is now motivation, because it’s in the past.
“And it’s about using [that disappointment] as fuel to be great this season. I’m determined to be a top player throughout the season, stay fit, and show everyone the best version of myself.
“I never doubt myself. I had no doubt that I’d be ready to go in the first game and put in a good performance. I feel like I did that.”
