Spurs maestro Maddison keen to step up following Kane's departure

James Maddison is happy to shoulder the burden of inspiring Tottenham to success this season.

The summer signing scored his first Spurs goal in a 2-0 victory at Bournemouth on Saturday, extending the North Londoners' unbeaten start to the campaign.

The England international, 26, broke the deadlock after 17 minutes at the Vitality Stadium before Dejan Kulusevski wrapped up the three points just after the hour mark.

Spurs now have seven points from three Premier League games, despite losing talisman Harry Kane to Bayern Munich earlier this month.

On playing a key role following Kane's departure, Maddison told BBC Match of the Day: "I'm at my best when I have responsibility on my shoulders. That's when I thrive.

"I am a player who loves to be on the ball and that fits with how the manager wants his players to play.

"You can't even look to replace what Harry Kane gives you. 

"You've got to all chip in and look to try and score the same amount of goals from different areas. 

"Harry is probably the best No9 in the world, you will never find a direct replacement in terms of goals and what he can give you."

Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou was quick to highlight Maddison's performance following the victory at the Cherries.

The Aussie coach said: "He's great for our set-up. 

"I said before the game that he's the kind of guy that when the ball gets to his feet, things happen. 

"He also works hard for the team, which is important for us. 

"We can't just have players who are good on the ball. He embraces that side of it. 

"He works really hard and he wins the ball back. I thought it was a good performance from him."

Tottenham will be back on the road for their EFL Cup second-round tie on Tuesday when they face London neighbours Fulham.