Effortless technique, an eye for goal and deadly at the set-piece... what James Maddison will offer England
- Leicester's James Maddison is likely to win his first England call-up this week
- The 21-year-old has been outstanding since his £22m move from Norwich
- His ability from set-pieces has proved a real threat for the Foxes this season
Leicester winger James Maddison is likely to win his first England call-up this week after strengthening his claims in front of England boss Gareth Southgate.
The 21-year-old has been outstanding this season since his £22million move from Norwich City and he was again at the heart of everything during Saturday's 2-0 win at Newcastle.
Here, Sportsmail run the rule over the Three Lions prospect…
Leicester winger James Maddison is likely to win his first England call-up this week
Technique
This is effortless. Maddison does not even have to worry about his touch for he knows the ball will stick to his foot, be it left or right.
He glides across the turf when in possession and his playing style is as slick as his haircut.
Set-pieces
Kieran Trippier would certainly have a rival for deadball duty were Maddison to win elevation to the England team.
His delivery from corners is fast, dipping and direct. One such set-piece led to the penalty from which Jamie Vardy opened the scoring.
In fact, you would have backed Maddison to score from 12 yards himself such is his confidence and conviction when faced with a static ball.
It was his wicked corner which then provided the second for Harry Maguire.
Kieran Trippier would certainly have a rival for deadball duty if Maddison were to get the nod
Defending
He was not really tested here given how little threat the hosts posed, but he looks a willing runner in both directions.
With fellow England hopeful Ben Chilwell behind him on the left, they contained the pace of full-back DeAndre Yedlin and the willingness of winger Matt Ritchie with ease.
Attacking
As easy as Maddison was on the eye, his contribution in the final third from open play was minimal.
On very few occasions did he truly penetrate the Newcastle backline and most of his good work was from deeper situations and deadballs.
Three goals from seven outings this season, however, tells you he is capable of making a difference in the penalty area.
Maddison and Ben Chilwell are both being monitored by England boss Gareth Southgate
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