James Maddison set for first England start against Ukraine

The midfielder was selected for the 2022 Qatar World Cup squad but didn’t make a single appearance in the middle-east due to injury.

Maddison’s only appearance for England came nearly three years ago, when he managed just 35 minutes against Montenegro.

The midfielder was overlooked by Gareth Southgate until the World Cup, with suggestions that Maddison’s attitude and apparent off-field behaviour played a part in his absence.

But Maddion’s attitude in Qatar – where he remained supportive of his team-mates even though he didn’t play – was said to have impressed Southgate.

And, after beating Italy in Naples in their first match of the group stage, Maddison is now set to start against Ukraine at Wembley.

Jack Grealish and Bukayo Saka started in wide areas against Italy, while Kalvin Phillips partnered Declan Rice in central midfield behind Jude Bellingham.

The Manchester City midfielder could make way for Maddison as Southgate reverts to a more attack-minded 4-2-3-1 to accommodate the Leicester City ace in his favoured position in attacking midfield.

Ben Chilwell will come into the side as Luke Shaw is suspended following his sending off against Italy.

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