This archive report was first published on 14 October 2019.
England manager Gareth Southgate has spoken out about the recent controversy surrounding Leicester midfielder James Maddison, who was photographed in a casino despite pulling out of the squad with illness.
On Friday, Maddison, 22, was pictured in a casino, while England lost a Euro 2020 qualifier in the Czech Republic.
Southgate acknowledged that Maddison's actions may have raised questions about the England players' personal lives, but emphasized that he knows 'pretty much everything' about his players.
'That goes with the territory. It's a high-profile position,' Southgate said.
He added that once a player has been released from the squad, it's up to them how they spend their individual time, but noted that there is an 'increased interest' in England players' personal and private lives.
Southgate, who has been keeping a close eye on his players, watches every minute of their football and speaks to their club managers and coaches to get a clear picture of each player.
He said, 'I know pretty much everything about all of my players. I watch every minute of their football, whether that's live or downloaded on a Sunday morning or a Sunday night, or a Monday morning.'
Southgate's comments come after Maddison withdrew from the squad for the trip to the Czech Republic and Monday's qualifier in Bulgaria.
Despite the controversy, Southgate remains confident in his squad and is looking forward to their next match.
Published on October 14, 2019 by Courtesy- BBC Online
