MADD UP FOR IT James Maddison will keep England place despite Gareth Southgate fury over casino visit
JAMES MADDISON will keep his place in England’s squad today — despite angering Gareth Southgate over his casino visit.
Posted Thursday, November 07, 2019 by Thesun.co.uk
The Leicester midfielder stunned the FA and boss Southgate after being pictured playing poker during his country’s 2-1 loss to the Czech Republic last month.
James Maddison stunned the FA and boss Southgate after being pictured playing poker after leaving the camp with illness
Southgate knows Maddison is an important part of the future and wants to keep him involved Credit: PA:Press Association
Maddison had left the England camp claiming he was ill.
But Southgate is certain to still select him this afternoon in his squad for the Euro 2020 qualifier at home to Montenegro at Wembley next Thursday and the trip to Kosovo three days later.
Although unimpressed with Maddison, who has yet to play for the senior team, Southgate knows he is an important part of the future and wants to keep him involved.
Southgate is also ready to give Aston Villa’s Jack Grealish a call-up — but he could yet miss out as there is concern over his calf problem.
The national boss went to Villa Park to watch Grealish face Liverpool on Saturday, only for him to fail a late fitness test — although club boss Dean Smith insists the player is fine.
Mason Mount is struggling with an ankle problem, which could open the door for Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain or Dele Alli, but the Chelsea midfielder is expected to still be in the squad.
The one player sweating on his place is defender Michael Keane. He has struggled for England and is set to be replaced by John Stones, who is once again playing for Manchester City.
This is crucial for Southgate as he was forced to play Harry Maguire on the right-hand side of central defence for the 6-0 win in Bulgaria.
Liverpool’s Joe Gomez was available but he has lacked form on the occasions he has been called upon by boss Jurgen Klopp.
Once again, there will not be a place in the squad for Manchester United’s Jesse Lingard.
Southgate’s England will qualify for the Euros with a draw at home to Montenegro.
The Three Lions will also book their spot at the finals if the Czechs beat Kosovo on the same night.
Southgate is also ready to give Aston Villa’s Jack Grealish a call-up Credit: Getty - Contributor
Photos
More»
Rhian Sugden's sexiest pictures
Saturday April 20 2024
Fans love Apollonia as she poses in tiny denim shirts
Saturday April 20 2024
Eugenie Bouchard sends fans wild in barely-there bikini
Friday April 19 2024
Your Say