Tottenham fans will be delighted by James Maddison’s move ahead of Radu Dragusin’s return to action.

Dragusin suffered an ACL injury in January, while Maddison sustained the same injury during Tottenham’s pre-season tour in Asia. Throughout their rehabilitation, the two players have supported each other, and the Romanian is now close to returning to action.

On Wednesday, the 23-year-old played 45 minutes for Tottenham’s U21s in a behind-closed-doors friendly against Leyton Orient, marking a major step in his comeback. Maddison, taking a day off, came to Hotspur Way to support his teammate.

Posting on Instagram, Maddison wrote: “Day off for me today, but couldn’t miss Radu’s first minutes back after nine months. I’ve seen firsthand how hard this man has worked to be in this position, ready to play again. His attitude, honest to god, keeps me so motivated every day. Proud of you, mush.”

A video shared by Tottenham showed Maddison giving Dragusin a warm hug as he prepared to enter the pitch.

Dragusin admitted it meant a lot to have Maddison there for his return. He revealed that Maddison had been a key source of support throughout his recovery and that having him by his side yesterday was special.

“Honestly, everybody, but you know, especially Madders, he was there when I got injured, he always was next to me to give me a laugh in a difficult day. For him to be here next to me, it really meant a lot, because you know, this is how we are here, we are a family, we don’t let anyone down in the hard moments, so I’m really grateful to be part of this group,” Dragusin told Tottenham’s official website.