England boss Gareth Southgate scouts Leicester City’s James Maddison at Newcastle United

James Maddison has been a revelation at Leicester City. His Championship promise was just, his form and quality true. It is not just the Premier League which is taking note, England boss Gareth Southgate will name him in his next squad.

Gareth Southgate is in Newcastle to watch Leicester City face the Magpies. The King Power club will aim for an away win and Claude Puel still needs to consolidate his position in the East Midlands. If his Foxes lost at home to Huddersfield, then Foxes of Leicester estimate he would have been dismissed by the Srivaddhanaprabha’s.

Puel polarises the Blue Army; neutrals seem ‘on the fence’ about suitability; while experts, writers and pundits generally agree the Frenchman’s overhaul is gradually working and necessary.

Though, it will take time to manifest a fortress like ground and a deadly traveling side. One vital element of Puel‘s prospective success or long-term tenure is, simply, James Maddison. Effectively, the playmaker is Leicester City’s nucleus and most important player – taking over from Riyad Mahrez.

All eyes will be on the 21-year-old as he runs the line between midfield and attack at St James’ Park for Leicester City in the Premier League. Yet, the most significant pair of eyes analysing the former Norwich player belong to Gareth Southgate.

It is not a question of: “will Maddison be called-up?”, it is a question of: “when”. That’s the way Mail Sport should phrase. And, the Three Lions play the United States of America in November – a perfect opportunity to trial the youngster – as Dele Alli and Jesse Lingard are both out-of-form at the moment.

Yet, some tip Maddison to be in the squad for the October fixtures against World leaders Croatia and Spain. Maddison is surely unique and good enough, but the USA friendly may suit a debut, or starting role more. But, with three goals and an assist, do not be surprised to see the Under-21 international in the senior squad next month.

Telegraph football initially broke the story that Southgate is in attendance in Newcastle to peruse Maddison’s quality. Along with Ben Chilwell, of course. They say:

"“James Maddison has the chance to try to force his way into England’s squad for the UEFA Nations League games against Croatia and Spain.England manager Gareth Southgate is scheduled to be among the crowd at St James’ Park to see Maddison and his Leicester City team-mates take on Newcastle United.”– Via Telegraph Football"

In addition, Telegraph also states that Spurs’ Harry Winks and Chelsea’s Ross Barkley are overlooked as the England chief preferred to assess the Fox first. Although, the former two are on Southgate’s radar.

Do you Leicester fans believe Maddison is of the standard for a senior call-up? You know our opinion!