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James Maddison has hailed Brennan Johnson’s knack for finding the back post as “a skill” rather than luck, after the winger’s eighth goal of the season helped Tottenham secure a stunning 4-0 victory over reigning Premier League champions Manchester City.
Johnson capped off a dominant Spurs display at the Etihad on Saturday, finishing a move orchestrated by Timo Werner, whose explosive run down the left left Kyle Walker trailing before delivering a precise cross. Johnson, sprinting from his own half, was perfectly positioned to slot home.
Reflecting on his teammate’s consistent ability to score from such positions, Maddison said:
“Brennan’s my best pal here, he’s a great lad. He worked so hard for the team when he came on today. He’s always there at the back stick, and it’s a skill. It’s not luck that he gets so many tap-ins because he’s relentless in his running and awareness. When people score a lot of tap-ins, it’s a skill, I promise. You’ve got to be there to have the chances, and he’s always there.”
A Special Day for Spurs
The victory marked one of Tottenham’s standout performances in recent history, as Ange Postecoglou’s men dismantled Pep Guardiola’s side with a clinical and resolute display. Speaking about the importance of savoring such moments, Maddison emphasized the need to celebrate the achievement.
“It’s a special day,” he said. “These days don’t come around very often — against the champions, arguably the best team in Europe, Pep Guardiola’s side — so you have to enjoy them.
“Credit to the lads, I thought we were absolutely outstanding today. We dug deep when we had to, we were clinical, we created chances, we relied on blocks from defenders and goalie saves… it was everything you want from a Spurs performance.
“I said to the boys, ‘It’s not often you’ll come to the champions and win 4-0,’ so enjoy it. People always talk about the next game, but sometimes you have to sit back, reflect a little, and then move on. I’m so happy and proud of the boys.”
Johnson’s Growth Under Postecoglou
Since arriving at Tottenham from Nottingham Forest in the summer of 2023, Johnson, now 23, has adapted seamlessly to Postecoglou’s system. His ability to get into scoring positions when the ball is played across the pitch has become a hallmark of his game.
The Welsh international’s ability to score simple finishes, like his tap-in against Manchester United earlier this season, is a testament to his positional awareness and work rate. Maddison, reflecting on his teammate’s impact, credited Johnson’s ability to take on instructions and deliver.
“He worked so hard for the team,” Maddison added. “I was on at him a bit, especially as we were getting tired towards the end, but he respects and listens. That’s why he’s so effective — he puts in the work and knows where to be.”
Eyes on the Europa League
With Thursday’s Europa League showdown against Roma on the horizon, Maddison acknowledged the balance between enjoying the victory and refocusing for the challenges ahead.
“This was a special win, but we’ll reset and be ready for the next one,” Maddison concluded.
Tottenham’s victory at the Etihad not only underscored their title credentials but also highlighted the growing influence of players like Johnson in Postecoglou’s high-flying squad.
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