Why is James Maddison wearing No 71 for Tottenham during pre-season?

James Maddison will wear the No 71 shirt for Tottenham during their pre-season tour of Asia.

The midfielder completed his £45million move to the north London club back in June.

The 26-year-old made 19 goal contributions in 32 appearances last season and will now relish pairing up with fellow England team-mate Harry Kane in attack.

Maddison put pen to paper on a five-year deal that will earn him £170,000 a week at Spurs, with the midfielder set to play a big part in the club's pre-season tour.

But why is James Maddison wearing the No 71 shirt? Who are Tottenham playing in pre-season? Mail Sport provides the answers below.

Why is James Maddison wearing the No 71 shirt?

During Tottenham's pre-season tour, the club confirmed that James Maddison will wear the No 71 shirt.

The club have revealed that supporters should be aware that the numbers worn by players in pre-season may not be representative of their finalised squad numbers for the 2023/24 campaign.

All squad numbers for existing players remain subject to change, with the full list set to be confirmed ahead of their first Premier League game against Brentford.

Which kit numbers are available?

There are several kit numbers that are currently available at Tottenham. Maddison could opt to wear the No two, 13, 16, 22, 26 or 27 shirt.

The No eight shirt is now available following the departure of Harry Winks, who has joined Championship side Leicester City.

The No 18 shirt could also become available, with Serie A champions Napoli eyeing up a move for Giovani Lo Celso.