For years, the idea of having an English footballer with the natural skillset of James Maddison was seen as fanciful. Ever since he first appeared on the scene, though, the youngster has looked a sublime talent. His first major moment came at Aberdeen, on loan from Norwich City, when he scored a sublime free-kick into Glasgow Rangers. Since then, he’s never really looked back.

What makes James Maddison stand out?

It would be hard to say just one thing that makes James Maddison a stand-out in the league. A creative talent with both assists and goals aplenty, he’s a creative fulcrum for Leicester City. His crossing, his ability to shoot from distance, and his movement makes him so hard to mark. He also links up very well with his teammates, playing tremendously well alongside some very important players.

He’s become a creative spark in the league, and one of the most important players to Leicester. If he was to become injured, they’d lose much of their creativity. He’s a fantastic set-piece taker, too, and tends to make the right choice. For one so young, he’s got a much greater understanding of the game than most would expect.

What does James Maddison need to work on?

However, where Maddison needs to work heavily on his game is defensively. While in the past a player of his creative skills could get by simply coasting, today that is not the case. Even at Leicester, his lack of defensive quality can be a bit of a standout issue.

Before Maddison could take that next step to a major Premier League contender, he’ll need to become better defensively. And he could do with becoming more reliable in the air, too; for someone so naturally fit, strong, and tall, he’s not great in the air. If he can work on these things, though, Maddison would be one of the most complete midfielders in the country.