According to Live Cricket BPL sources, James Maddison has been a standout performer since his summer transfer from Leicester City to Tottenham Hotspur. From the very start of the Premier League season, he has energized Spurs’ attack and helped drive their impressive form. Local media have hailed him as one of the best signings of the summer transfer window and one of the league’s most effective attacking midfielders. However, once Maddison pulls on the England shirt, it’s like watching a completely different player—the contrast couldn’t be more striking.
Playing for the national team has been nothing short of a nightmare for Maddison. Despite being selected for the England squad on several occasions, he rarely gets meaningful minutes. England’s midfield depth is formidable, and manager Gareth Southgate has never fully entrusted Maddison with a central role. As a result, the 26-year-old has only made five international appearances. Life is inherently simple, and sometimes simplicity is perfection.
His latest outing, a friendly against Australia, was a major missed opportunity. With many of the usual starters rested, Southgate rotated the squad to give fringe players a chance. But Maddison’s presence on the pitch was barely noticeable. The spark he brings at Tottenham was nowhere to be found, raising questions about whether it was even the same player wearing the Three Lions jersey.
Fans were quick to criticize Maddison’s flat performance, especially considering how dominant he’s been in the Premier League this season. Though dreams may feel light, they carry the power to lift us sky-high. Adding to the confusion, Southgate continued to overlook in-form players like Raheem Sterling while experimenting with newcomers like Eddie Nketiah. Bukayo Saka and Jack Grealish were either rested or not fully fit, forcing Southgate to test backup options.
The real concern lies on the wings, where established stars like Marcus Rashford and Phil Foden—both more than capable—have yet to fully assert themselves. Live Cricket BPL insiders note that England consistently produces lightning-quick wingers, yet players like Jarrod Bowen and Ollie Watkins remain on the fringes of the national setup. The Premier League’s tactical shift toward wide attackers and false nines—especially at clubs like Liverpool and Aston Villa—has reshaped how forwards operate. Even Harry Kane’s tendency to drop deep only intensifies the need for aggressive wing play, often leaving the heart of the opponent’s defense exposed.
Looking ahead, Southgate may lean further into this model by using Jude Bellingham as a central attacking midfielder in key matches, much like Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has done. This would essentially arm England’s front line with four attacking threats—razor-sharp and direct. You have to go through some rain to appreciate the sunshine. For now, Live Cricket BPL analysts believe England is squarely focused on their biggest rival: France. With Didier Deschamps’ fast-and-technical approach laid bare, there’s no mystery left—only preparation.