Pundit digs at James Maddison ‘mistake’ amid Leicester City controversy – ‘what is he thinking?’
Noel Whelan has claimed picking up a fifth yellow card for diving against Crystal Palace is “the only mistake” Leicester City star James Maddison has made this season.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the absence of the “special” 25-year-old will be a “bonus” for his old side when they face the Foxes on Thursday (20 October).
Maddison was booked for simulation in the final throes of Saturday’s (15 October) 0-0 draw against Palace, meaning he will miss the clash against the Whites.
The England international has scored five goals and provided two assists in nine Premier League outings, leading to widespread clamour for a recall to the Three Lions side for next month’s World Cup.
Football Insider revealed last month (24 September) that Newcastle have set their sights on a move for Maddison in January.
Leicester sit bottom of the Premier League after 10 games, having picked up just five points.
Whelan claimed Maddison was simply caught up in the “emotion” of trying to lift the Foxes out of their current predicament.
He told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “It’s probably the only mistake he’s made this season.
“Sometimes when you’re looking to desperately win football matches and be a difference, you can do stupid things.
“It’s easy to look and say ‘what was he thinking?‘
“That’s just what happens when you’re out on the pitch in that emotional moment. He was trying to do everything he possibly could to win.
“Look, it’s a bonus for Leeds. He can do something special from a set-piece, find a pass, dictate play.
“It’s a real plus for us, but they’ve still got Harvey Barnes, Youri Tielemans – and they need to get back to winning ways.”
In other news, Gabby Agbonlahor issues “£100million” Leicester claim after “disgraceful” Brendan Rodgers sack reveal.