FIFA World Cup 2022: James Maddison and Callum Wilson included as England squad is announced for Qatar

FIFA World Cup 2022 updates, Leicester midfielder James Maddison has been included in Gareth Southgate's 26-man England squad for the 2022 World Cup, along with Newcastle striker Callum Wilson.

Neither player has featured for England since 2019, but recent club form has seen them earn a call-up for the Qatar tournament, which begins on November 20.

Discussing Maddison's inclusion, Southgate said: "He is playing really well. We think he can give us something slightly different to the attacking players that we've got.

"He's playing as good as any of the attacking players in this country. He is a little bit different to the others. I think we could need that."

Maddison last played for England in November 2019 while 2020 Wilson's last international cap came a month before in October 2019.

Leicester manager Brendan Rodgers was delighted for Maddison, calling him "one of the best players in the Premier League".

"It's wonderful news for James and his family. I'm also delighted for Gareth from a coaching perspective to have that talent available in what's such a great tournament," Rodgers said.

"I think his level of consistency, the work ethic, the talent and what he's proven over the last few years has swung that decision for him because he's a fantastic player and one of the best players in the Premier League. I'm really, really delighted for him.

"I've always sensed with James that desire to improve and be the best that he can be.

"When I spoke to him this morning - just anticipating either way because at that stage we didn't know - my case was really reinforcing about the next World Cup.

"However it goes, whether you get the decision or not, it's really about progressing and developing and he's got that mentality to do that. It's great news for him and great for his country."

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