James Maddison ‘built for World Cup’ as Brendan Rodgers hits out at narrative
Maddison #Maddison
Brendan Rodgers believes he’s lucky to watch “superstar” James Maddison for free as he waxed lyrical over the Leicester City playmaker’s performance at Everton.
Maddison set up both goals in a superb individual showing that helped earn City a victory that lifts them to 13th in the table. It was his final Premier League outing before Gareth Southgate names his England squad for the World Cup in Qatar.
Rodgers could not have more praise for his number 10 and said he is one of the best players in the Premier League, and is made for the world stage and 150,000-capacity stadiums. He also railed against the narrative around Maddison’s character, the 25-year-old often framed as flashy and unwilling to do defensive work.
READ MORE: Leicester City player ratings v Everton: James Maddison world class in excellent team performance
READ MORE: Everton 0-2 Leicester City live reaction: Rodgers’ thoughts as Tielemans and Barnes goals lift City to 13th
“This boy has been at this level for 18 months,” he said. “Firstly without the ball, he’s a player that has improved in that aspect, which every coach wants to see. They want to see gifted players working, pressing. That’s what the top level is about.
“If you’re talking technical level, tactical idea and efficiency, he’s right up there. He’s one of the best players in this league, never mind in England. There’s absolutely no question. We’re talking in this league which is full of world-class superstars. He is a superstar. What a player.”
He added: “This is a game where people will create a narrative and spin stories around a certain player. That has been created with him. He’s a young guy who has played in the lower leagues and has come into the highest level. He might have a Louis Vuitton bag, but he loves football. He made some mistakes that he would admit as well.
“For me, the joy I have in working with him every day, I couldn’t buy that. Talking football and having breakfast, out on the field, you’d pay to watch him train he’s so good. I’m very lucky that I don’t have to pay to watch him play football in the biggest stadiums.
“This boy is built for a World Cup. This boy can go into a 150,000-seater stadium and it doesn’t matter. He can take the ball, he’ll pass the ball, he’ll be creative. That’s his stage. Everyone has seen it and that’s why I keep getting questions on it.
“He’s one of the best players in the Premier League, who happens to be English. There are other incredible talents about. But just look at his numbers and what he produces.
“He’s a brilliant guy who has matured. I left this player out of an FA Cup final because of certain aspects of his game I didn’t like. But he’s always responded. He has a resilience. He has a toughness. He’s a top, top player.”
If Maddison does not make Southgate’s squad, it will be a disappointment for a player whose stats put him above many of those who are likely to be selected. But Rodgers insists it won’t sadden him to the point of affecting his performances.
Rodgers said: “He’s had one cap, so he’s already of a mindset and an anticipation like he has been when he hasn’t been in squads. We’ve spoken a lot about it, and if it’s not to be for him, he’ll have some time with his family and then he’ll push even harder when we return.
“Naturally he would be disappointed. For James, I don’t have any doubt whatsoever that he will consistently play at that level.”
What decision do you see Southgate making on Maddison? Have your say in the comments…
READ NEXT: