Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou admits he left out James Maddison for tactical reasons.

The no.10 was a notable absentee from the start as Spurs lost 2-0 to Chelsea on Thursday night.

The result means that Spurs are now adrift of Aston Villa in the race for a top four finish.

On Maddison, Postecoglou stated: “I thought we needed to freshen up the team. I thought we needed some legs today as they've obviously got a real mobile and quick front three/four and I just felt we needed some legs in the midfield.

“With Biss and Pape coming in, and Deki, I thought it would help us. Fair to say it didn't work though."

On rarely losing three in a row, he added: “It is what it is. I don't sort of think in those terms.

“Like I said, my responsibility is preparing the team every game to make sure we reach certain levels. We didn't do it today so that lies at my feet and I've got to fix that."