Maddison’s England Honour
- James Maddison expressed his gratitude after being selected in Gareth Southgate’s England squad
- Maddison could potentially make his senior debut against Croatia on Friday 12 October
- Ben Chilwell and Harry Maguire are also in the squad
The Three Lions continue their UEFA Nations League campaign this week, when they travel to Rijeka to take on their 2018 FIFA World Cup Semi-Final opponents, before a clash with the 2010 world champions follows three days later.
Maddison, capped four times at Under-21s level for England, spoke of his pride after being selected for the latest round of international fixtures alongside Foxes team-mates Ben Chilwell and Harry Maguire.
Speaking to the media on Tuesday, Maddison said of his England call-up: “I knew I had been playing well for Leicester and I have started all the Premier League games so far this season, and I have had a relatively good start personally as well, but you can never expect it.
“It is such a big honour to come and play with England and get the call from Gareth [Southgate]. I am truly honoured.
Recalling the moment he was named in the senior squad, Maddison added: “I got a call. I think I was just at my home. I answered the phone and I didn’t know what to say, to be honest.
“I wasn’t expecting it and it was one of those ‘pinch yourself’ moments.
“I put the phone down and just stared at the wall for a few moments. It is a childhood dream to be called up to the England squad. I am honoured and truly grateful to be here.
“I think I called my mum and dad. I had to let them know. They have come to watch me up and down the country.”