Roy Keane has launched a scathing criticism of James Maddison, questioning when the Tottenham midfielder will "step up" amid the club's disappointing Premier League campaign.
The former Manchester United captain cast doubt on the England international's ability to transform Spurs' fortunes, with the north London side currently languishing in 14th place.
Maddison, who is among several key players sidelined through injury, has been absent since picking up a calf strain last month.
Speaking on Sky Bet's Stick to Football show, Keane dismissed suggestions that Maddison's return would significantly improve Tottenham's prospects, suggesting fans expecting him to guide Spurs to a top-six finish were "in cuckoo land."
Roy Keane has launched a scathing criticism of James Maddison, questioning when the Tottenham midfielder will "step up" amid the club's disappointing Premier League campaign
SKY
Keane's criticism was particularly pointed when discussing Maddison's recent performances, highlighting a match against non-league side Tamworth.
"We saw James Maddison at Tamworth, he was taken off! Tamworth are non-league," Keane remarked.
The pundit also referenced Maddison's past struggles, noting his relegation with Leicester City.
"He got relegated with Leicester [City] and [looks like] with Spurs," said Keane. "If you're a player in the Spurs dressing room and he's back in the squad, you wouldn't be looking and going, 'James is back today we're going to be fine!'"
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“You’re in cuckoo land!” 😵💫 😂
— The Overlap (@WeAreTheOverlap) February 13, 2025
Big words from Roy! Over to you, James Maddison… 💪 pic.twitter.com/XltI6tlskV
Gary Neville turned to the camera to jokingly apologise to Maddison, while Ian Wright said Keane had 'killed' the Tottenham star.
Despite the criticism, Maddison has recorded impressive statistics this season, with eight goals and four assists in 22 Premier League appearances.
His standout performance came during Tottenham's visit to Manchester City in November, where he scored twice in a commanding victory at the Etihad.
Keane acknowledged Maddison's quality in that particular match, stating: "I saw him at [Manchester] City when they won that game 4-0 and I thought he blended the quality of his attacking with actually being good in his defensive duties."
However, the pundit remained unconvinced about Maddison's consistency. "He set a standard that night that he's got to continue to keep. He's not consistent that's the problem with him," Keane added.
Tottenham's struggles have been compounded by an extensive injury crisis, with 11 first-team players currently unavailable.
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Key absentees include Radu Dragusin, Micky van de Ven, Cristian Romero, Guglielmo Vicario, and Destiny Udogie.
The injury list also features Dominic Solanke, Brennan Johnson, Timo Werner, Richarlison, Wilson Odobert and Maddison himself.
James Maddison has blown hot and cold for Tottenham this season
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In response to these setbacks, Spurs strengthened their squad during the January transfer window with three new signings: Antonin Kinsky, Kevin Danso and Mathys Tel.
Ange Postecoglou's side face a crucial test this Sunday when they host Manchester United in what has become a must-win Premier League fixture.
