James Maddison lands new role as Tottenham star continues recovery from ACL injury

James Maddison will return to TV screens this week — just not in the usual way fans are used to seeing him.

The Tottenham and England playmaker, who normally makes his impact on the pitch, has been sidelined since suffering a serious ACL injury in August. With his season in doubt, Spurs supporters may not see him play again this campaign.

Instead, Maddison will be using his voice rather than his feet on Monday as he joins the Sky Sports studio lineup.

The 29-year-old is set to feature alongside Jamie Carragher during Sky’s coverage of Wolves versus Manchester United.

For years, many have suggested that Maddison’s charisma and confidence in front of the camera make him a natural fit for punditry once he eventually retires. The Coventry-born midfielder has always been a strong communicator, regularly stepping up for post-match interviews at Spurs.

His appearance in the studio will offer a fresh chance to showcase his broadcasting potential as he continues his long road back from injury.

ACL recoveries generally take around nine months, meaning Maddison might only be close to returning in May.

That puts his chances of making Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for the World Cup in June at serious risk. Still, the ex-Leicester star says he won’t fall short due to a lack of commitment.

Speaking to FourFourTwo, he said: “I’ve been giving everything every day — keeping my head down, pushing through and staying focused.

“I’m desperate to be fit again. I’m so hungry for it and putting in the work. Tottenham’s medical staff, the manager and all the coaches have been brilliant — they’re just as eager as I am to see me back out there.

“I need to make sure my knee feels right, strong and stable, and everything else will fall into place.

“I can’t wait to get back out there for Spurs, prove myself again and reach the level I know I can.”