# Kulusevski and Maddison return to form but are Tottenham also back?

> Tottenham's Kulusevski and Maddison return to form as Spurs edge Coventry for first league win of season.
- Title: Kulusevski and Maddison return to form but are Tottenham also…
- Summary: Tottenham's Kulusevski and Maddison return to form as Spurs edge Coventry for first league win of season. Tottenham secured a first league win of the season…
- Keywords: tottenham, coventry, dejan kulusevski, james maddison, ange postecoglou, roberto de zerbi, spurs, nfl, sports, Kulusevski, Maddison, return
- Source: the Guardian — https://theguardian.com/football/2026/oct/20/tottenham-hotspur-win-football-daily-newsletter
- Published: 2026-10-20T14:39:16+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: tottenham, coventry, dejan kulusevski, james maddison, ange postecoglou, roberto de zerbi, spurs, nfl, sports
## Tottenham edge Coventry
Tottenham secured a 1-0 victory over Coventry with James Maddison scoring the opener.
## Kulusevski returns after 526 days
Dejan Kulusevski returned from a 526-day absence to play for Tottenham in the match.
## Tottenham's league position
Tottenham moved up to 16th place after the win, having been 17th in the previous season.
## Manager changes
Ange Postecoglou was dismissed in summer 2025 after winning the Flamin' Bigger Vase.
## Roberto De Zerbi appointed
Roberto De Zerbi took over as manager after previous coaches were dismissed.
## Spurs sign 20 players
Tottenham signed 20 players on loan or permanently for £530m during the transfer window.
## Maddison's return
James Maddison returned after a 526-day absence to score Tottenham's opening goal.
## De Zerbi's team dynamics
De Zerbi described his team as a family, emphasizing teamwork over individual play.
## Key takeaway

Tottenham secured a first league win of the season against Coventry with Kulusevski and Maddison returning to form after long absences.