In a recent interview ahead of Leicester City’s clash against Brighton and Hove Albion (via Manchester Evening News), Brendan Rodgers told the media that he has no plans to sell anyone in January when he said, “We want to grow, and there’s a lot of development left in this squad.
“We’ve absolutely no plans to lose anyone in January.
“Our job is to keep what we have and if there’s an opportunity to improve the squad we will look to do that. If not, we will carry on with the squad we have, which is very strong.”
David Ornstein of The Athletic had reported last month that Manchester United were working towards finalising Maddison’s transfer in the next 12 months. However, Rodgers’ latest update will be a bitter pill to swallow for the Red Devils which will lower their chances of bringing the English playmaker to Old Trafford in January.
Maddison’s Outstanding Form At The King Power Stadium This Season
The Coventry-born talent has enjoyed a fantastic start to this Premier League season after putting in a string of goal-scoring displays for the Foxes so far. He has played in 13 matches for the East Midlands outfit this term, scoring six goals while creating two assists in all competitions.
Maddison is averaging 3.0 shots, 2.2 key passes and 2.5 dribbles per game in the English top-flight (stats via whoscored). However, he is yet to secure his first international cap for the English national side, which is surprising to many, considering how well he has performed for the Foxes before the international break.
What Does The English Midfield Ace Offer On The Pitch?
Maddison is the chief creator of Rodgers’ Leicester side and has played an instrumental role behind their stellar start to this campaign. The East Midlands team are currently sitting pretty in second place of the league table, eight points behind the league leaders, Liverpool. The English prospect’s incredible contributions have made Leicester a heavy favourite to clinch a UEFA Champions League spot at the end of this campaign.
Maddison is deceptively quick and can make some penetrative runs from midfield. He excels at making plays in the opposition half and doesn’t mind striking the ball from long range when an opportunity presents itself. The former Coventry City youngster has proven that he can score goals regularly in the English top-flight, which makes him an excellent fit for any of his potential suitors.
Leicester Not Prepared To Sell Maddison In January: Massive Setback For The Mancunian Giants?
Therefore, missing out on him in January will be a big blow for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as the Man United boss is in dire need of a quality midfielder at the Theatre of Dreams. Paul Pogba’s future at Manchester is still up in smokes while both Scott McTominay and Fred have struggled to create chances for the Red Devils going forward. Therefore, Maddison would have been a brilliant addition to their squad this winter.
