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James Maddison hoping for busy summer with England seniors and U21s
James Maddison is hoping to feature in both the Nations League Finals and the European Under-21 Championships this summer as he targets the “perfect” end to his breakthrough season at the top level.
The midfielder would have no qualms about turning out for the England senior side and the Under-21s at the end of the campaign, despite a busy season in which he has been a mainstay of the Leicester City side.
Maddison was called into Gareth Southgate’s senior squad in October last year, but did not make an appearance for the first team. The 22-year-old was one of the more surprising omissions from Southgate's squad for this international break as he instead dropped down to the Under-21s.
“I’m representing my country, I’m happy to do that at any level,” said Maddison, who added that he would “definitely” be keen for a Nations League and Under-21 Euros double-header. “It would be perfect.”
Southgate explained his decision to leave Maddison out of the senior group by saying he sees the Leicester playmaker as a number 10, a position which does not fit into England's current formation.
Maddison has featured in more deep-lying positions, though, and played for Aidy Boothroyd’s side against Poland Under-21s last week as part of a midfield three.
“I played as a number eight against Poland,” he said. “I played there for my club in the last few weeks. Wherever Aidy wants me to play, whatever formation. I found myself on the right of a three and I enjoy that role. It’s good to have different roles in your locker.”
Maddison, who is set to play against Germany Under-21s in Bournemouth on Tuesday night, added: “I learned a lot with the seniors and knowing what it’s like and how they train, I could come down as an even more experienced player and help the lads. I’m one of the older players in the group.”
Maddison has consistently impressed for Leicester since his £25m move from Norwich City last summer. He has started every game under new manager Brendan Rodgers, who he says has been “brilliant” with Leicester’s younger players.
“He’s been very good, I feel like I’m in good form and it’s always nice to come to the international break in good form,” Maddison said. “Training here is just as good a standard as the Premier league.
“He’s a top manager and has a great CV. He’s come in, sat everyone down and has a way of playing. He’s been brilliant for the young lads and it’s been really positive.”