FIT-AGAIN JAMES IS MADD FOR IT
JAMES MADDISON will have one of England’s most infamous World Cup heartbreaks on his mind when he finally takes his place in the Three Lions squad today.
Having initially sat out training after reporting to the squad with a knee problem, the Leicester City star has been involved in sessions since Saturday.
He is set to take his place in the matchday squad to face Wales, and would win just his second senior international cap.
The first came over three years ago, but after his superb form in the weeks leading up to the World Cup made it impossible for Gareth Southgate to overlook him, Maddison is spurred on by the regrets of tournaments past.
Asked to recall his first World Cup memory as part of JD Sports’ King of the Game Christmas campaign, Maddison said: “It’s not actually a great memory but it’s when we were in school and were allowed to watch the England games.
“Lessons would almost stop when England were playing.
“[I remember] England playing Brazil in the 2002 World Cup and Ronaldinho scored a free-kick over David Seaman.
“I remember being devastated in school, everyone was devastated because England got knocked out that day.
“I’m giving you an honest answer, that is my first memory of England at the World Cup.
“I loved football from the minute I could walk so even then, I was upset at England losing.
“It’s quite an iconic moment, that free-kick, so that one’s definitely stuck with me and that’s the one I remember.”
Maddison now aims follow in the footsteps of the players he admired as a child, while also forcing his way into Southgate’s side, which is set to feature several changes following the goalless draw with the USA.
That could give him the chance to make a name for himself on the world stage, and recalling his own World Cup heroes, Maddison said: “It would definitely have to be an English player, I was a big fan when I was growing up and I still am now.
“I’d say maybe David Beckham or Wayne Rooney, two of my favourite players growing up, two of the players that I looked up to.
“I used to support Manchester United when I was a kid and those two were playing for United and representing England.
“I’m pretty sure I had a Beckham top and a Rooney top in different tournaments so I would probably have to go with them two.”
Watch James Maddison in the JD Christmas campaign ‘King of the Game’, with JD exclusive product drops available online at jdsports. co.uk and in stores across the UK now.