What makes Ange Postecoglou of Tottenham choose to center his squad around a £40 million star?

It may have surprised a few when Ange Postecoglou decided not to replace Harry Kane with another star at Tottenham Hotspur last summer.

Postecoglou had the unwanted task of holding Tottenham together following their historic star’s departure.

And rather than seeing his appointment as a poisoned-chalice, the manager identified a real opportunity to mark a new era.

Postecoglou’s decision to spread responsibility throughout his squad now looks to be a superb one.

Son Heung-min has been back to his best, and the likes of Pedro Porro and a few new signings have emerged as unlikely leaders.

That being said, the signing of James Maddison has clearly been a massive success as well.

Even though Maddison was hoping to play alongside Kane, he reacted remarkably well in his absence.

And via a new report by The Athletic, it’s now been shared why Postecoglou was so convinced to build his Tottenham team around Maddison.

Postecoglou and Maddison had a productive conversation before the England international arrived, and the duo never looked back.

Ange Postecoglou was convinced James Maddison could be the star of his new Tottenham

In the conversation, Maddison showed a desire to specifically play for this Spurs side and be the chief creative director in this new era.

Postecoglou was said to have heard a hunger in his voice, which led to his decision to make him the pillar of his new side.

Of course, that was an incredibly wise decision in hindsight.

The £40m paid for Maddison now looks like an absolute steal.

And with Postecoglou now expecting his new star back for Tottenham’s FA Cup tie against Manchester City, the side will enjoy a huge boost.

It remains to be seen if Spurs will add to their midfield before the January window closes.

It seems as if a winger is now the priority, with Tottenham locked in talks for Club Brugge’s Antonio Nusa.

And whilst Spurs have been both efficient and astute in the window thus far, some fans may be hoping to see their XI improved in the next seven days.

Moreover, with that in mind, the signing of a £45m Premier League player would show real ambition.