James Maddison admits disappointment after being excluded from the last English team

James Maddison admitted he was not happy to be excluded from the English side after providing an impressive performance in Leicester’s 4-0 Europa League win over Braga.

The midfielder scored the final goal while the Foxes held the 100% record after three group games, after Kelechi Iheanacho scored the first two and substitute Dennis Praet the third.

Maddison’s progress this year was curtailed by a hip injury that caused him to miss much of the season after the block and required surgery before this campaign.

But after being overlooked by Gareth Southgate for England’s upcoming matches against Ireland, Belgium and Iceland, Maddison is determined to be part of the next squad, having won his only appearance against Montenegro last year.

Asked if he was disappointed to lose, Maddison told BT Sport: ‘Yes, to be honest. I want to be on the English team, this is what I dreamed of as a child.

‘I had a taste and I want more. Now I’m back in shape and shooting, getting the minutes in my legs. I had a long injury last season and a couple of hits this year, so I haven’t had a streak of consecutive games.

‘I can’t check if I’m in the England squad I don’t pick the team but I can only focus on Leicester – second in the Premier League, three out of three in the Europa League so if I keep my form it’s good for Leicester and I hope rest will sort itself out.

Along with Maddison, Harvey Barnes was also sidelined after making his friendly debut against Wales last month.

Foxes boss Brendan Rodgers added: “They are two very talented young players and I am sure they will be able to return to the squad during the season.”

Maddison’s mood was enhanced by his team’s performance, especially in the second half. Boss Brendan Rodgers could even afford to leave top scorer Jamie Vardy on the bench ahead of Sunday’s clash with the Wolves as his side scored good winners.