James Maddison found the net for the first time since returning from injury and that has to be positive for Tottenham's chances of summoning a strong finish and qualifying for the Champions League.
Maddison's creative flair was integral to the flying start in the first campaign under Ange Postecoglou and he has been searching to find the same rhythm after more than two months out.
He earned assists against Everton and Crystal Palace but his goal at Aston Villa on Sunday was his first since October, in his sixth game back after two months out.