James Maddison made his first ever England start on Sunday, and it was an afternoon to remember for the Newcastle United transfer target.
Maddison started on the left of attack for the Three Lions, with Gareth Southgate deploying him alongside Harry Kane and Bukayo Saka.
They hogged the headlines by scoring in England’s 2-0 win over Ukraine, but Maddison was also impressive at Wembley.
It was just his second ever appearance in an England shirt, and his first ever as a starter. It comes during an impressive season for Leicester, where he currently has nine goals and five assists in the Premier League.
The 26-year-old did not feature at the World Cup, but will now have his sights firmly set on Euro 2024 in Germany. England have got their qualifying campaign off to the perfect start, while Maddison has proven he has got what it takes to impress at international level.
Jude Bellingham hails James Maddison
After the game, Maddison took to his official Instagram account to comment on his first start for his country.
Alongside some pictures from the win over Ukraine, he wrote: “I love football.”
The midfielder received plenty of replies from his international teammates, including one from teenage superstar Jude Bellingham, who could have an impact on where Maddison goes this summer.
He replied: “Some player Sheriff.”
Bellingham was impressed with what he saw from his teammate, who also received high praise from pundit Chris Sutton on BBC Radio 5 Live.
He said: “He must be undroppable on the basis of today’s performance.”
Newcastle target shows his versatility
Maddison has shown he can do it at international level, all the while playing in a slightly unfamiliar position.
Southgate used him on the left of attack, while he normally plays centrally or off the right in a Leicester shirt.
He showcased his versatility, and that will have delighted Newcastle manager Eddie Howe. The Magpies are hoping to sign Maddison this summer, having missed out during the previous two transfer windows.
He is Newcastle’s top target this summer, and it has been claimed that Maddison is intrigued about a possible move to St James’ Park.
Dan Ashworth is looking to sign an attacking midfielder and a versatile forward, and Maddison can fulfil both roles.
His performance for England will no doubt have increased Newcastle’s desire to sign him ahead of next season – although it might convince Leicester to raise their asking price.
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