Why Maddison didn’t play vs Arsenal and possible return date

Foxes of Leicester discuss why Leicester City midfielder James Maddison didn’t feature in the game versus Arsenal and his return date.

Brendan Rodgers’ game plan was clearly flawed versus Arsenal, as the away team cruised to a 1-0 victory. If a manager allows another team to dominate possession of the ball, then opposing counterattacks must be ferociously vigorous. Leicester’s were not. There was disorganisation at both ends for the Foxes, from what I saw. The LCFC display and result were far from disastrous or worrying. Although, we have seen the home side become pushovers and lacking a clinical nature on too many occasions.

Obviously one of the main reasons Leicester couldn’t give it more of a go against the Gunners – or decided not to, tactically – was the absence of playmaker James Maddison. The star Fox didn’t play in the weekend’s Premier League clash due to ‘illness’. During the current season when the former Norwich City man has been sidelined, the east Midlands outfit have managed a mere three points from a possible 21. Which is a shocking but unsurprising statistic. One shot was mustered all day on Saturday.

What Brendan Rodgers said after Leicester City defeat to Arsenal

Following loss to Mikel Arteta’s side, Rodgers spoke to the media to offer an assessment of the contest. The Northern Irishman also labelled Maddison as one of the ‘best in the league’, while saying that missing his quality would essentially affect any lineup.

In addition to that, Rodgers confirmed that Maddison passed a fitness test on his injured knee, though the doctor told the England international to stay away from proceedings. Leicester Mercury suggest Maddison shall likely be ready for Southampton in the EPL; the No.10’s availability for the FA Cup is doubtful.

Meanwhile, Rodgers revealed that he told his squad they must collectively learn to attack without ‘Madders’. But, isn’t instructing and teaching that element mainly a boss’s job?

Furthermore, the King Power club’s gaffer admitted that his men must perform the basics to a higher standard, which I totally agree with. The 50-year-old doesn’t wish to put all the responsibility onto Maddison’s shoulders.