By Karim Hammam
Tottenham Hotspur have received a significant boost ahead of Saturday's Premier League clash with Crystal Palace after manager Roberto De Zerbi confirmed playmaker James Maddison is fit for selection.
Maddison overcomes injury scare
Maddison limped off in the 51st minute of Spurs' 2-0 victory at Chelsea last weekend, raising fresh concerns given his recent return from anterior cruciate ligament damage in May. However, De Zerbi stated the midfielder is available despite a reduced training load this week, describing him as a "special player" whose character and unique qualities are vital to the team.
Udogie also returns
Left-back Destiny Udogie will also feature after missing the wins over Coventry and Chelsea with a knee problem. De Zerbi acknowledged Udogie's ongoing injury struggles but praised the medical staff for managing his workload correctly this season, contrasting it with the decision to risk Pedro Porro against Aston Villa.
Spurs target consistency after historic win
The victory at Stamford Bridge marked Tottenham's first there in eight years and only their second away win over Chelsea in the Premier League era. De Zerbi warned against complacency, urging his squad to maintain focus and build a winning streak. He highlighted a core of leaders including Andy Robertson, Micky van de Ven, Pedro Porro, JP van Hecke, Sandro Tonali, Rodrigo Bentancur, Tosin Adarabioyo, Ben Davies and Maddison as drivers of the team's mentality.
