James Maddison was once again left on the bench as Tottenham lost 1-0 at Leeds on Saturday, with Roberto De Zerbi choosing not to introduce the England international.

It was the second consecutive match in which the midfielder has been an unused substitute, following the win over Crystal Palace.

There is a bigger issue here than one team selection.

Maddison is Tottenham’s most creative and arguably most influential player when fit, but how much can De Zerbi really rely on him?

His return from injury initially looked like a major boost. He scored against Coventry and then started the victory at Chelsea, before being forced off with a knock. Since then, his involvement has been limited to watching from the sidelines.

The playmaker’s absence from the action is so frustrating for the fans and has an impact on the team.

A player of Maddison’s quality should be one of the first names De Zerbi wants on the pitch.

Instead, he has spent the last few weeks feeling more like an extra member of the coaching staff than a player capable of influencing games.

Of course, Tottenham cannot rush him back. After such a serious injury, managing his workload carefully is sensible. But there is a difference between protecting a player and being unable to count on him.

Spurs need Maddison available consistently, not simply fit enough to take a place on the bench. His talent is obvious. The problem is that talent is of limited use when he cannot get on the pitch.

De Zerbi’s decision at Leeds was understandable if Maddison was not ready, but it also highlighted a weakness in this squad: Tottenham still lack a dependable creative talisman they can call upon week after week.