James Maddison’s decision to line-up for Leicester City on the opening weekend of the Premier League amid interest from Newcastle United is a sign of character that will make him perfect for Eddie Howe’s side. With United weighing up another bid for the midfielder, showing a willingness to play while others may have refused will have pleased those on Tyneside.
Some had questioned whether Maddison’s attitude would be the right fit for United’s squad, with the club’s scouting team paying close attention to the attitude and application of any new arrival. The fact that Maddison, despite it being believed he would not be against a move to Tyneside, turned out for Leicester in their 2-2 draw with Brentford, will only be another tick on the list to why Howe wants him in his side.
Speaking on an episode of The Everything is Black and White Podcast earlier this month, Sam Mulliner of Newcastle Fans' TV was one of those not too sure about Maddison's attitude. “I’m not a big fan of Maddison - I don’t like his attitude," he said, "There are some personality traits there which may make you think he’s not the right type of player for Newcastle.
“But on the flip side, he’s a talented lad, a great age and would improve us but does he fit into that mould and culture that Eddie Howe is building at Newcastle? I’m not so sure.”
Maddison’s performance against Brentford however was one of maturity. He is not naïve to the attention from Newcastle or the pressure Leicester are under.
Maddison had a decent outing against the Bees and for many was man of the match. He had 88 touches of the ball (3), completed four out of five long balls (1) and finished the game an 84 per-cent pass completion rate. He also laid the ball on for Leicester’s opener which was finished neatly by Timothy Castagne.
That assist goes to reaffirm why Newcastle are so keen to bring him to Tyneside, for in 2022 Maddison has been involved in 13 Premier League goals for the Foxes - scoring seven and creating six - with only Harry Kane topping the table with 21. Maddison had a hand in 11 of Leicester’s 14 shots in the game - going close himself with a diving header which flashed narrowly wide.
Indeed his performance was so impressive, Danny Murphy picked him out on MOTD 2: "He looked sharp, hungry, he was a goal threat, he's a super technician. He's had his injuries and problems off the pitch but it looks like he's got his head screwed on now. He's looking like the player we all thought he was going to be. I think for me, when he's at it he makes Leicester a better team.
"I think he's one of the few players who can break into that England squad for the World Cup coming up. If you look at his numbers, they're up there with the best of them and his set plays have always been amazing - they're so crucial and to have somebody who can keep putting them on the money."
With three weeks to go until the window closes and with Brendan Rodgers adamant that Maddison is not for sale but also dealing with the financial pressures at the King Power - this one could run until the deadline.
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