James Maddison explains early Tottenham substitution during Coventry win

De Zerbi introduced Kulusevski late in the game when Tottenham was under pressure from Coventry. Despite being away from competitive play for nearly 18 months, Kulusevski’s physical condition did not appear to be affected as he quickly made an impact on the match, pushing Coventry back and helping Spurs secure their first league win of the season.

James Maddison also had a strong performance, scoring his first goal in over 17 months. He was substituted around the 70-minute mark despite feeling capable of playing longer, adhering to De Zerbi's cautious approach regarding player minutes post-injury. Both Maddison and Kulusevski’s returns are seen as significant boosts for Tottenham's morale and performance.

Kulusevski described his emotional return, noting that he had previously told loved ones he might never play again due to the severity of his injury. The win against Coventry marked a turning point for Tottenham in the Premier League standings, moving them off the bottom of the table. Maddison highlighted Kulusevski's contribution upon entering the game, acknowledging his return as crucial to the team’s success despite the Swedish player's long absence. Both players' returns were celebrated by fans and the club alike, providing much-needed optimism for Tottenham's prospects in the league.