James Maddison has spoken candidly about Tottenham Hotspur’s alarming slide towards the relegation zone, admitting he finds the situation ‘embarrassing’. The England midfielder, who is still regaining full fitness after a long injury spell, is determined to guide Spurs to safety while avoiding a repeat of his serious setback.

London derby defeat deepens relegation fears

Tottenham’s battle to stay in the Premier League will extend to the final matchday of the season following their 2-1 loss to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday night. Goals from Enzo Fernandez and Andrey Santos gave the hosts control, and although Richarlison reduced the deficit late on, it was only a consolation for the visitors.

The result leaves Spurs in 17th place in the Premier League table, just two points ahead of the relegation zone with one match remaining. A victory over Chelsea would have secured survival, but they now face Everton on Sunday knowing their top-flight status remains in jeopardy. If 18th-placed West Ham defeat Leeds and Tottenham lose, the north London side will drop into the Championship.

Maddison expresses dismay at club’s decline

Speaking to Sky Sports after the final whistle, Maddison did not hold back in his assessment of Tottenham’s situation. “We have to give everything for the club, for the badge, for the fans,” he said. “It’s a bit embarrassing that we’re in this position. We’re going to need our fans, who were unbelievable tonight. I think we have the best away following in the league.”

The playmaker also acknowledged that Tottenham missed a crucial chance to ensure safety before the final round of fixtures. “We knew any sort of result would be very beneficial for us in the battle. It wasn’t to be,” he continued. “We pushed hard in the last 20 minutes. It was probably a pretty even game. I don’t remember them having many chances.”

Injury concerns persist after ACL surgery

Maddison’s campaign has been heavily disrupted by injury, with the midfielder only returning in April after undergoing major ACL surgery. The psychological and physical challenges of coming back from such a serious lay-off remain significant for the former Leicester City star, who admits he must be cautious about his recovery.

“Anyone who has worked in football or has had this injury knows it’s not easy to step straight back in. It would be catastrophic for my career if something were to happen,” Maddison said.

Final-day showdown against Everton

Tottenham now prepare for a decisive final-day clash that will determine their Premier League fate. Despite the physical risks, Maddison accepts the responsibility to deliver when manager Roberto De Zerbi calls upon him. As Spurs’ key creative force, he understands the weight of expectation to produce decisive moments that could keep the team in the top division. The midfielder admitted he is still adapting after his long absence.

“I’ve been out for a long time, so I’m not going to be at my most fluent,” he explained. “I’ve had a massive injury and you have to respect that. I’ll do what I can on Sunday. Being creative is my job, it’s what I’m paid to do. I haven’t played much this season, but when I do, that’s what’s expected. Hopefully, when I’m on the pitch, I can help the team.”