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Foxes’ boss on why Maddison should be grateful to Farke
James Maddison returns to Norwich City on Friday Picture: Paul Chesterton/Focus Images Ltd - Credit: Paul Chesterton/Focus Images Ltd
Leicester City chief Brendan Rodgers is in no doubt James Maddison owes his Norwich City mentor Daniel Farke a huge debt.
Maddison makes his first return to face his old club on Friday since a club record move to the East Midlands in 2017.
The 23-year-old is now being touted with the likes of Manchester United and in contention to be part of the England squad at this summer's European Championships.
But it was only Farke's arrival at Carrow Road that kickstarted his career.
"When I have spoken to him on it, he will always be grateful for the opportunity he got there because he was a young player out of League One," said Rodgers.
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"When he first arrived it didn't quite happen for him, but Daniel came in and gave him that opportunity, and that opportunity allowed him to join us in the Premier League.
"I also know his sale allowed them (Norwich) the opportunity to bring in finance to stabilise the club, so it probably worked well for both.
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"But everyone I know who has ever played for, or been at Norwich, has a great affinity with them and the area and James is no different.
"In football you can't really have sentiment. He will always be thankful and grateful for what Norwich gave him. They gave him a great platform and he has come to here.
"He knows he is employed by Leicester City. The money is in his bank every month and he wants to do his very best for Leicester City, so sentiment doesn't come into it."
Rodgers is optimistic Maddison will snub potential mega-money summer moves to sign a new Leicester deal.
"Talks have been ongoing with the club and his representatives," he said.
"I know the boy is very happy, he wants to be here and he sees this as the club he can develop at. I am hopeful it will be done."
