JAMES MADDISON is a major injury doubt for England’s World Cup opener against Iran.
The midfielder was unable to take part in training once again today.
It means Maddison is still yet to train with the Three Lions squad since flying out to Qatar.
The Leicester star is struggling with a knee issue which forced him off during a match against West Ham last week.
But England are unable to call up a different player as teams cannot replace players less than 24 hours before kick-off.
Gareth Southgate’s side began training on Thursday and also had a session on Friday – both in 33C heat.
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Players used misting machines by the side of the pitch to cool off – leading some fans to worry they may not be ready to take on Iran on Monday.
But Maddison was absent, only turning up for the pre-training talk conducted by the manager.
He now faces a race to be fit in time with group games against the USA and Wales to follow.
Every other England player has trained in all three sessions – including Manchester City star Kyle Walker who had been out injured.
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Maddison had tried to downplay his injury, tweeting last week: “Injury isn’t too bad!”
“A small problem that was causing a bit of soreness. Can’t wait to meet up with the lads Monday.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
