Maddison scores on return as Tottenham beat Coventry for first Premier League win

James Maddison scored less than 15 minutes into his first Tottenham start in 18 months, setting up a 3-1 win over Coventry City that gave the club their first Premier League victory of the season, according to BBC Sport, ESPN and the Evening Standard.

The midfielder's goal was his first in the Premier League in 610 days, reports the Daily Mail. Maddison described the comeback as a "dream" return, while also acknowledging the "dark days" he endured during recovery, the Evening Standard reports.

De Zerbi's tactical switch pays off

Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi revealed the inspiration behind his decision to substitute Dejan Kulusevski during the match, reports Sports Mole. The Swedish winger made his long-awaited return in the victory, with the switch helping to secure the result.

A lift off the bottom

The win lifts Tottenham off the bottom of the Premier League table, according to the Daily Mail. Maddison's goal was his first for the club in a competitive match since his return from injury, with BBC Sport noting the moment was 18 months in the making.

ESPN reports that Maddison scored in a "dream" return, with the midfielder's performance earning praise in the player ratings published by BBC Sport. The creative forward has been "sorely missed" and wasted little time getting back up to speed, according to the Evening Standard.