Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher insist James Maddison MUST be part of England’s World Cup squad

Jamie Carragher and Gary Neville have backed James Maddison to make England’s 26-man World Cup squad following the Leicester playmaker’s sensational performance in Monday’s 4-0 win over Nottingham Forest.

Maddison opened the score in the East Midlands derby with a deflected shot, before getting his second 10 minutes before half time when his free kick was crushed from 25 yards past a helpless Dean Henderson.

The 25-year-old assisted Patson Datka with an inch-perfect cross in the 73rd minute before withdrawing his standing ovation moments later.

During the Monday Night Football game, former Manchester United fullback Gary Neville and legendary Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher urged England manager Gareth Southgate to bring Maddison to the World Cup in Qatar.

“Gareth Southgate is big on set pieces and there are a lot of players, but if you look at the numbers, why wouldn’t he be in a 26-man squad? I’ve never seen anything but a good personality and a good character,” Neville said.

‘What’s the reason he wouldn’t be there? It is not a matter of having him above others. A manager goes to the World Cup with the system, but he has to consider that he may have to change.

“There has to be a plan B and if you need a ball from a certain piece, you have other players on the bench and he is in the best shape.

“I don’t know another English manager who has chosen players more by form,” he said.

Carragher echoed similar sentiments when he said Maddison’s performance this season means he should be selected for the winter tournament.

‘You can now choose a squad of 26. There must be a place for him,” Carragher insisted.

“He analyzes his goals, he gives us answers, he is a breath of fresh air, we don’t ask for anything to make the headlines, just be honest and give insight!

“He’s a football man, it’s refreshing and I wish more players were like that. Do not be afraid. Whether he’s a star from England or puts us out of work!’ he added.

Maddison’s goals in Leicester’s first win of the season put him on a level this season with Manchester City’s Kevin de Bruyne, 14, just three behind City hotshot Erling Haaland.

The Leicester star has not been seen by the Three Lions since their win in the 2019 European qualifier over Montenegro with Southgate, instead favoring other attacking talent.

But with stunning performances in a largely struggling Leicester side, Maddison is making a strong case to join England in the Middle East at the World Cup in November.