Tottenham Hotspur midfielder James Maddison has been left out of the England squad for the upcoming international break once again. This is the third time in a row that the former Leicester City midfielder has been a missing figure from the Three Lions camp.
In the past summer, the 27-year-old was left out of Gareth Southgate’s squad for the European Championship, and many pondered how that would affect the player coming into the new season. However, all credit goes to Maddison; he took it on the chin and returned back to Hotspur Way with a renewed fire in his belly to prove his credentials.
He has enjoyed a splendid start to the new season as he takes up the chief creative responsibility at N17 and has inspired the Lilywhites in a fantastic winning run before the international break.
Maddison continues to be overlooked by England
There have been ample of changes in the English camp as well, with Lee Carsley taking over the reins from Southgate. However, he has followed his predecessor to not call up Maddison. And Postecoglou articulated his thoughts on Maddison missing out on the England squad while providing some encouraging words for the 27-year-old midfielder.
Tottenham head coach, speaking in the press conference ahead of the Lilywhites game against Brighton, said: (via. Spurs official website)
“Of course he’s disappointed, but he’s playing exceptionally well. Sometimes, in football, you don’t always get what you want. There are circumstances beyond your control, but that shouldn’t take away from everything else you’re doing. He’s been brilliant for us, and he’s made an impact in every game.”
The Australian went on to state the £170,00-a-week maestro’s importance for Spurs, saying,
“He’s playing really well for us; he’s been outstanding all year, an important part of our midfield set up, and if he continues to do that, I’m sure he’ll be selected again.”
It is difficult to see Maddison miss out on representing the Three Lions given how he can decide games on his own. But he should get his heads down and focus on maintaining his impressive form with Tottenham.
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Do you think Maddison should have been called up for England? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.