James Maddison believes Tottenham are shedding their reputation for being ‘soft’ and ‘bottlers’ after their flying start to the Premier League season.
Under new head coach Ange Postecoglou, they have won four of their six opening games, not losing any in the league.
They came from behind twice against Arsenal on Sunday to draw 2-2 in the North London Derby.
There has been a belief that Spurs have historically been a weak side, while criticisms have also been levelled at them for throwing away leads and inability to win trophies. The League Cup in 2008 was the last major honour they won.
But Maddison, 26, thinks that is starting to change.
He told talkSPORT: “Neutrals talk about Tottenham, they often say; soft, weak, bottle it, Spursy, all that rubbish.
“I think the last couple of weeks shows we might be going in a slightly different direction.”
Meanwhile, Postecoglou has admitted he does not know what the handball rule is.
Spurs had a penalty awarded against them in the second-half after the ball hit Cristian Romero’s hand from close range, blocking a shot that was directed towards goal.
Bukayo Saka scored the penalty to put his side 2-1 up.
Asked about the decision, the Australian said: “Mate, I couldn’t see but I’ve got no idea about the handball rule. I really don’t.
“I saw the one yesterday at Wolves and it just seems if it hits your hand it’s a penalty and then other times if it hits your hand, it isn’t a penalty. I’ve got no idea. It is the one rule in the game I just don’t understand.
“Unless we start developing armless defenders I don’t know how you are supposed to block things and be in a natural position. It is what it is mate. You kind of hope these things even themselves out over the course of a year but I don’t understand the handball rule.
“I have said that to referees in the past and I don’t know how they see it to be honest.”
Tottenham, who are fourth in the Premier League table, face Liverpool at home next weekend.
(Photo: Marc Atkins/Getty Images)
