After receiving an unexpected call-up from Qatar, England midfielder James Maddison has acknowledged that he is “desperate” to play in the World Cup.
The Leicester City player, who missed the first two games of the group stage due to injury, says he is “100%” fit and ready to go.
Back at it & feeling good 😁 pic.twitter.com/lrTCdyF3wo
— James Maddison (@Madders10) November 26, 2022
Maddison turned out to be one of Gareth Southgate’s biggest selection issues as so many people publicly advocated for his inclusion in the 26-man squad.
And while Southgate answered those pleas by including the midfielder who has seven goals and four assists to his name this season, he has not yet called upon Maddison in Qatar.
What Did Maddison Say?
The Three Lions midfielder says that despite his lack of game time, he is still gaining an enormous amount of experience and learning every day.
‘Involvement doesn’t always mean minutes on the pitch and that’s something that I’ve probably learned in the last few weeks of being out here,’ he told talkSPORT.
‘Of course, every player wants to play and I’m no different. I’m desperate to get out there and show what I can do but it’s one of them. It’s my first major tournament at senior level and it’s brilliant to be a part of.
‘It’s such a learning curve and you gain so much experience on a daily basis without even realising on how it works and what it takes to be successful.’
Trending Stories: Richarlison Left In Tears As He Dances With Brazil Legend Ronaldo
He added: ‘I’m feeling good. The injury is gone, I’m feeling 100 per cent.
‘I’ve been training for a while now and have been available for the last couple of games and so it’s just about being patient, staying ready, which I am.
‘Working hard and trying to be an option for the manager.’
COMMENTS