Topics: England, Football World Cup, Football, Gareth Southgate, James Maddison
England fans are furious that James Maddison didn’t get a single minute on the pitch during the World Cup in Qatar.
Gareth Southgate’s side fell to a heartbreaking 2-1 defeat against defending champions France after captain Harry Kane missed a late penalty to make it 2-2.
France went ahead inside 20 minutes after Aurelien Tchouameni’s sweet strike found the bottom corner. In the 54th minute, England were awarded a penalty after Bukayo Saka was fouled, Kane stepped up and levelled the proceedings.
Olivier Giroud then headed his side back in front in the 78th minute. With time ticking down, the situation was bleak for the Three Lions.
Advert
However, they were given another lifeline as Mason Mount was bundled over in the 18-yeard box by Theo Hernandez with six minutes left. But Kane blasted his spot kick high and wide. France held on as England players fell to the ground in utter heartbreak when the final whistle sounded.
Although Southgate’s men produced a brave and valiant display, a lot of fans showed their frustrations on social media, with many expressing their discontent over the fact that Maddison was not used at all.
Prior to the tournament, the Leicester man was one of the most in-form players in the Premier League.
Since August 2021, no other English players have registered more goals and assists than Maddison. In 13 league appearances this season, the 26-year-old has managed seven goals and four assists. It is no wonder why England fans were left disappointed by Southgate's decision not to bring him on.
One fan said: “James Maddison not getting a single minute at this World Cup is a footballing crime…”
Another tweeted: “Southgate not letting James Maddison get a single minute this World Cup was criminal.”
A third fan added: “James Maddison… most creative midfielder we have. Not a minute. Not a second.”
Someone else commented: “Still can’t get over James Maddison having 0 minutes at the World Cup.”
After the match against France, Maddison wrote on his Instagram: “Tough night for us. Pleasure to be a part of this group. Gutted it didn’t end how we all wanted it to.”
France will now take on Morocco for a place in the World Cup final.
