Ange on Maddison's return - 'He was as close as anyone else'

Ange Postecoglou has revealed that James Maddison was close to starting tonight's FA Cup clash with Manchester City, but he was mindful of the midfielder's match fitness.

Back in training this week for the first time in two months as he recovered from an injury picked up in November's clash with Chelsea, James is back in the matchday squad for this evening's clash with City (kick-off 8pm UK), but he will take a place amongst our substitutes rather than taking a starting berth.

And, despite the England man only having a few days back in full training, Ange admits it was a close call to whether or not to include the him from the off.

"Yes, it was as close as anyone else," our Head Coach admitted. 'But, you know, obviously he hasn't played for quite a while. And, yes, I'm mindful of the fact that, I reckon there'll be a fair bit in the game early that, you know, having him to come on, could be helpful for us."