How’s James Maddison fitting in at Leicester?

Leicester negotiated successfully with Norwich for creative midfielder James Maddison. Can he repay his fee and how is he fitting in with the squad?

James Maddison signed for Leicester City on June 20 from Norwich City. A fee of £20m saw the Canary transform into a Fox. In the five weeks since he joined, Maddison has made a big impression on the pitch and behind the scenes. He is all over the Snapchat and instagram stories, which players takeover occasionally.

People may make the mistake of thinking Maddison is a straight replacement for Riyad Mahrez – he is not. Mahrez is best suited as a winger, the former a No.10. What he did for Norwich – and hopefully will do for Leicester – is supply a similar level of magic, on average, as the Algerian. On arrival, manager Claude Puel said this of his latest transfer:

"“James is a wonderful player who is one of the most exciting young talents in English football” – Claude Puel (Via BBC Sport)"

Albeit the Championship versus premiership, in a stats comparison they are similar. The Englishman managed 14 goals and 8 assists in 2017/18. While his colleague – for all of 20 days – involved himself in 22 goals last campaign as well.

However, fans and pundits often miss the key pass factor with a player of this ilk. A nuance which doesn’t show up on statistics as readily. Click this link for some fabulous play by the Foxes new man. Here is hoping he transitions that stunning form.

When they return from an extended World Cup break, Harry Maguire and Jamie Vardy’s notoriously irreverent banter should suit Maddison. We have witnessed great morale enhancing moments at Leicester City over the years. The England Under-21 international will be a superb addition to their group of jokers. Many other members who positively contribute to team spirit could be mentioned.

In his interview with lcfc.com on Friday, the 21-year-old says: “We had the game Wednesday and it was good to get another run out, more minutes in the tank. They’re more valuable minutes and that’s what you need in pre-season.” It seems, from all quarters – including conditioning coaches – that he is settling in brilliantly.

Performances in preseason for Leicester City

Against Notts County, Maddison was exceptional. I describe that type of performance as running the show. Everything positive and dangerous in attack went through him or was instigated. Man of the Match!

Versus Akhisarspor Maddison played well again. Seemingly Puel tried him on the wide-right for the first-half. He looked solid there for Leicester City. Especially with the ball at feet, set-pieces and crossing. Yet it was centrally once more where he played a deft, lovely through ball. Link up play with Fousseni Diabate and Demarai Gray is of note, too. The Foxes play Udinese in a friendly on Saturday, 2pm BST.

Maddison will play a big role for City this coming season. Is he going to impress in the Premier League?