Noni Madueke was named Man of the Match following England’s 1–0 scrape against Andorra in a lacklustre World Cup qualifier. The Chelsea winger was the sole splash of quality on show, running the Andorran defense down the wing before providing for Harry Kane’s first-half goal.
Madueke was sunshine in an otherwise uninspiring Three Lions side. His ball control, vision, and attacking verve were a taste of his improved maturity. Where others struggled to fashion chances beyond a trusting Andorran defence, Madueke showed calmness on the ball. The Chelsea fans will certainly be eager to see him impress in the Club World Cup under Enzo Maresca.
Despite club form having been patchy, this display showed off his ability in an operating central role. He completed three dribbles, created four chances, and kept the goalkeeper worried with three shots. With the Blues set to use various players along the wings next season, Madueke may well be given greater responsibility and show his quality further.
John Obi Mikel Believes Noni Madueke Could Be Sold By Chelsea
Chelsea’s future for Noni Madueke remains uncertain, and former midfielder John Obi Mikel pointed out that the winger can be sold in the summer. While speaking in an interview with Metro, Mikel did acknowledge to observe observing the quality and consistency of Madueke’s game:
“If he is the player that is going to have to be let go to bring in another top winger, it’s not a bad idea but for me, I would keep him and bring in someone else. Because the talent is there. But he needs to perform week in week out.
“The manager knows better than anyone else, he must have seen something in him we haven’t seen. Maybe how he trains, how he applies himself, I don’t know, if that is going to happen, maybe there is a reason Maresca wants to get rid of him. But as a Chelsea fan, I keep him.”
Madueke has produced moments of magic, most recently as England’s hero in their comfortable victory over Andorra. However, he has not emerged as a regular starter for Chelsea.