Topics: Cesc Fabregas, England, Lee Carsley , Arsenal, James Maddison, Football
Former Arsenal and Barcelona midfielder Cesc Fabregas believes one ‘complete’ England star is someone “you would always want in your team”.
Last week, interim boss Lee Carsley named his squad for the upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures against the Republic of Ireland and Finland.
The 50-year-old surprised fans by selecting former Manchester United youngster Angel Gomes, who now plays for French Ligue 1 side Lille.
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However, the likes of Kyle Walker, Marcus Rashford, Adam Wharton, Lewis Dunk and James Maddison were all overlooked.
Speaking on the BBC's Planet Premier League podcast earlier in the year, former Arsenal and Spain superstar Fabregas heaped praise on Tottenham Hotspur man Maddison.
He said: “Straight away you could feel he’s got the confidence. He’s got the personality to demand the ball, to make things happen and to create situations. He’s good at dribbling, he is good at assisting and he can score goals. So he’s a really complete player in my opinion.
“He has a good understanding with Son and the strikers and for me, he’s a fantastic player to have.”
Fabregas continued: “And as a coach, I’m sure that you need to adapt to the strengths of your players and the better quality they have, the easier it is. And definitely, he is one of them you would always want in your team.”
Carsley was asked about his decision to leave out Rashford and Maddison during his press conference.
He replied: “Rash and Maddison? There are players ahead of them.
“They are on the radar and will be considered in the future.”
On why he picked Gomes, the interim England boss said: “Angel’s very technical, controls the game with his skill and technique. Very determined, excellent attitude. Technically and tactically excellent. I think he’s a player that people are going to really be excited to see.
“It’s important to also recognise how well (England) done in the past. We’ve come so close (to winning a trophy) but I thought it was important to put some fresh faces in the squad.”
