Time and opportunities are running out for James Maddison ahead of Euro 2020 

It was during a passage in the first half, when little flicks and feints had blue shirts twisting and turning, that you thought of someone absent. 

James Maddison would have loved an evening like this: wide open spaces to exploit, a team playing with confidence and ample opportunities to wreak havoc. But he was sat watching at home, perhaps wondering what the future holds. 

This latest international camp has been excellent for midfielders Jack Grealish, star of the show in Belgium on Sunday, Mason Mount, scorer of the second in this procession against Iceland, and Phil Foden, who wrapped up the win with his first two international goals. 

Leicester star James Maddison could have thrived playing for England against Iceland

Aston Villa’s Jack Grealish has now pushed ahead of Maddsion in the England pecking order

For Maddison, however, it has left a question mark next to his name. The Leicester midfielder is desperate to get back into Gareth Southgate’s plans and said he was disappointed to miss this month’s three games having recovered from injury. 

Southgate would never close the door on a player but you have to wonder whether circumstances are going to prevent Maddison from earning his place in the head coach’s plans for the European Championship. Suddenly, regardless of his club form, he is at the back of a long queue. 

Despite his ability, Maddison faces a race against time to be involved for England at Euro 2020 

Mason Mount, who is highly rated by Southgate, is another player who is ahead of Maddison

Grealish, you suspect, has won Southgate over and, along with Mount and Foden, will be in the squad for the tournament.

Other experienced players like Ross Barkley will also be in the Southgate’s thoughts. It gives an indication of the challenge facing Maddison. Time and opportunities are running out.