James Maddison explains Richarlison decision after Tottenham penalty confusion
James Maddison said he was keen to make sure Richarlison grabbed a goal following his return from injury - saying he remembered his own struggles to get on the scoresheet after his fitness woes last season
by Oli Gamp · The MirrorJames Maddison has revealed he decided to let Richarlison take Tottenham's penalty against AZ Alkmaar on Thursday night after having a "little conversation with himself".
Tottenham beat the Dutch side 1-0 in the Europa League thanks to Richarlison's spot kick, but Maddison claimed the ball to take the penalty at first - placing it down on the spot before giving it to his Brazilian team-mate.
Maddison, who was captain on the night, said he was keen to make sure Richarlison grabbed a goal following his return from injury - saying he remembered his own struggles to get on the scoresheet when he came back from an ankle problem last season.
The England international told TNT Sports: "Initially we both wanted to take it. I’m a senior player, I was the captain today, I was going to take the penalty.
"There was a little thought in my head, when I was stood there I had a little conversation with myself and just thought, 'Richy’s coming back from an injury, it can be difficult, especially for a striker'"
He added: "I learnt that last year when I had a long injury, it took me a while to get my first goal. That really gives you confidence. So a split-second decision to let him take it and that’ll do him the world of good."
Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou had no problem with the penalty dispute and Maddison's change of heart as he praised both players for the performance and said he was just happy the ball went in.
"As long as they score mate, it doesn't really bother me," the Australian said. "I thought Madders was outstanding today. He was captain tonight, he was so creative, caused them problems.
"I think he sensed in that moment Richy's worked awfully hard and he's kind of got his season started tonight."
Before the Alkmaar game, Richarlison had only played 34 minutes in the Premier League during substitute appearances against Leicester, Everton and West Ham - with fitness issues keeping him out last week.
Tottenham's next game is a trip to Crystal Palace on Sunday before they host Manchester City at home in the Carabao Cup fourth round.
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