What Leicester manager said about Maddison’s dive

A failed audition for Leicester City man

The 25-year-old’s recent performances have re-lit the debate over his England place ahead of the World Cup in November; Southgate was there to have one last look at him before finalising his squad for the tournament. With the dive, it is fair to assume that the playmaker won’t have forced his way into Southgate’s plans.

Maddison’s selection – or lack thereof – has been an ongoing debate amongst Leicester and England fans. In 2019 he received a well-deserved call up to the National squad, making his senior debut against Montenegro in that November. The game remains his one and only appearance for England and he has failed to be called up since. Instead the likes of Jack Grealish, Mason Mount, and Phil Foden have firmly established themselves ahead of the Foxes No.10.

Brendan Rodgers’ feelings

Speaking to the media after the Palace game, Brendan Rodgers was asked about Maddison’s performance and if he failed to impress the Three Lions manager:

"You can’t judge him on this game. I thought he had a good game, I thought he was really creative for us. He’s a guy who is playing out of position for the team because we don’t have a winger on that side, so we’re having to balance the team on that side of the pitch and his cleverness and brightness is still allowing us to be creative and score goals. He’s a top player at this level. I thought he had a good game today. He was unfortunate at the end, he’s obviously looking for the penalty, but it wasn’t to be.”"

Asked then in detail about the dive and Maddison’s suspension, Rodgers had this to say:

"For him, more than anyone. He wants to help the team and support the team. I haven’t seen it back but I’m assuming he thinks there’s going to be contact there and it didn’t quite come for him. When you miss a player of that level, in the position we’re in, we could do without it, but there will be someone else to come in and take his place. Quotes provided by LeicestershireLive"