CARRA BLAST STIRRED UP MADD PASSION
BRENDAN RODGERS has sent a nod of thanks to Jamie Carragher for lighting a fire under James Maddison. Leicester’s boss said the words of Sky pundit Carragher prompted a positive reaction from the
England international.
Maddison heard comments from the ex-liverpool centre-half about how he needed to find the net more often.
And the Foxes forward acted upon that advice, asking his boss and the club’s analysts for ideas.
And ahead of today’s
FA Cup clash at
Brentford, Rodgers said that the words from his former charge at Anfield had been a boon.
He said: “It has been a
SPARK: Brendan Rodgers constant since the day we came in here that we have worked with refreshing.
James to improve him – but Carra’s “This boy hasn’t forgotten – among words gave him another spark. all the so-called glitz and glamour of the
“What I think was pleasing about Premier League – where he’s from. James was that he didn’t become That’s why you get such honesty. emotional in a negative way on what With 10 matches in the next 35 days, Carra was saying about him. Rodgers’ squad will be tested to its
“James constantly analyses his game. maximum but he is determined to keep He’s constantly talking about it. He is his foot on the pedal. always looking for ways to improve.” He added: “I’m going to field as good
Maddison has netted five goals in his a side as I can (in the FA Cup). I need last seven outings, including one in the players to produce against Brentford. midweek win over Chelsea, and that “Our intention is to attack every improved return will be important competition during the second half of during the next few weeks as Rodgers this season.” heads into today’s tie without star man Jamie Vardy, who has undergone a hernia operation.
Maddison, 24, is now likely to take on increased responsibility and Rodgers believes the player dispelled a misconception about him with an honest interview following Tuesday’s defeat of Frank Lampard’s side.
The Foxes boss added: “There is a comparison to be made with Jack Grealish, Mason Mount and James.they are all great talents but, in my opinion, they all offer different things to their teams.
“What I love about James is his personality. He’s such an honest boy.that interview he did was so