James Maddison was exceptional again as Norwich City held Championship high-flyers Derby County to a 1-1 draw at Pride Park on Saturday.
It is fair to say James Maddison was not the most popular person at Pride Park on Saturday afternoon.
In the eyes of many Derby County fans, the Norwich City play-maker dived to win the first penalty of the day in the weekend’s 1-1 draw. Nelson Oliveira’s spot kick was saved by Scott Carson but, with 20 minutes to go, Maddison riled the home support again by firing home a penalty of his own to cancel out Matej Vydra’s first-half strike.
Although it is a credit to Derby’s supporters that they were able to overlook Maddison’s antics and appreciate a tremendously gifted footballer. Saturday’s performance provided a snapshot of why Tottenham, Manchester City and Liverpool are keen on a midfielder valued around £20 million, as reported by the Standard.
Maddison has nine goals and five assists to his name in the Championship this season. Compare that to Derby’s own play-maker and the difference is startling.
Tom Lawrence, who Derby paid £7 million to sign from Leicester City after a wondergoal-induced loan spell at Ipswich Town, has been a little underwhelming at Pride Park so far. The Welsh international is capable of moments of spectacular quality but they have been few and far between this season.
Lawrence has produced six assists but his tally of two goals is disappointing, and he was subbed off immediately after Maddison’s leveller on Saturday.
And Derby fans believe that Norwich’s star man has set the benchmark for their inconsistent number ten.
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