‘It can’t just be about him,’ says Leicester manager Brendan Rodgers, warning his players not to rely too heavily on James Maddison in their relegation battle, ahead of the England star’s expected to return to action against Southampton.
Brendan Rodgers has warned his Leicester City players not to rely too heavily on James Maddison as they prepare for a crucial game in their relegation battle.
The Foxes playmaker has been dealing with a knee injury that has limited his ability to train, with Sportsmail reporting in February that Leicester was concerned enough to send Maddison for a scan before the 4-1 win over Tottenham.
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The 26-year-old has missed Leicester’s last two games due to illness, which resulted in defeats to Arsenal and Blackburn in the Championship, but he is expected to return on Saturday to face bottom club Southampton, who are six points below Leicester in the table.
Maddison’s return could not have come at a better time, with nine goals and five assists in the league this season.
‘Players like James Maddison help others,’ Rodgers said. ‘He’s a fantastic player, but it can’t be all about him. Others must come forward and demonstrate what he does.
When he’s on the field, however, his influence spreads throughout the team. He never runs away from the ball. He has the guts to take it and get the team involved.’
Maddison’s injury problems this season have highlighted his importance to Leicester. They average 1.3 points per game with him in the starting lineup. When he is not present, the average drops to 0.5.
With Jonny Evans and Youri Tielemans both injured, the former Norwich City captain is likely to reclaim the armband against Spurs and Manchester United.
‘It’s a huge game, there’s no other way to put it,’ Rodgers added.
‘The players will know, and we will not be able to hide from it. We are not in the position we desire.
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