Maddison honoured to receive England call-up
Leicester City midfielder James Maddison has revealed his delight in receiving his first call-up to the senior England squad.
The Leicester Mercury write that Maddison was left speechless upon hearing the news before contacting his parents to let them know.
The 21-year-old has impressed England boss Gareth Southgate since making the step up to the Premier League following his £22m summer move from Norwich City.
The player has amassed three goals and two assists in his eight league appearances to date.
Maddison is one of four uncapped players to have made the cut for the UEFA Nations League matches with Croatia and Spain, as Southgate looks to reinvigorate his squad following their efforts in Russia over the summer.
The playmaker said:
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. I am truly honoured. 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.
The Foxes man has previously represented his country four times at U21 level.