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Paul Merson believes City midfielder James Maddison could find himself in a similar situation to Matt Le Tissier in his bid to become an England regular after being left out of the most recent squad.

The former Southampton man scored 102 goals in 270 Premier League appearances, but was often overlooked by the Three Lions, only managing to earn eight caps and not getting on the scoresheet once.

Merson worries that Maddison’s international career could go the same way despite a debut campaign in the top flight in which he has caught the eye, scoring six goals and racking up the same number of assists.

Writing in his column in the Daily Star, Merson said: “Tiss should have played so much more for England than he did, but he was overlooked, partly because he never played for one of the big clubs.

"Maddison could be in the same situation at Leicester, and it doesn’t look good for him when I hear what Gareth Southgate says about him.

“Southgate says England don’t play with a No 10, so there isn’t room for him in the squad. But that’s exactly where Le Tiss found himself.”

The former Arsenal man also suggested that Maddison deserves an senior call-up for the national team due to his form so far this season following his move from Norwich City in the summer.

He added: “I like Maddison. I don’t know what more he can do. He plays every week, makes things happen, has an eye for a pass, and creates so many chances.

“Yet people like Callum Hudson-Odoi get in the squad ahead of him when they’re barely getting a game. I find that strange.

“I’m not saying Hudson-Odoi shouldn’t be in the squad. But pick them both.”

The 51-year-old also believes that another City star who recently retired for the Three Lions could put in a positive word with old boss Gareth Southgate.

Merson continued: “Jamie Vardy knows how good Maddison is.

“He makes a run because he knows Maddison will find him. He sees a pass.

“I think he’s only going to get better and I’d like to see him playing for his country now.”