TEENAGER James Maddison is determined to fight for his place in the Sky Blues team after returning to training following a three month injury lay-off.
The 19-year-old has missed most of the 2015/16 campaign after picking up an ankle injury at the start of the away fixture at Walsall in August.
Up until then, Maddison had been in impressive form having been handed the number ten shirt by manager Tony Mowbray and he started all three opening league matches.
But with Mowbray adding to his midfield since Maddison’s injury with the likes of Joe Cole, Ryan Kent and Gael Bigirimana all joining on loan, the academy graduate knows he still has a lot of hard work ahead in order to win his place back in the side.
“It’s a great feeling to be back out training,” said Maddison, who is expected to make his anticipated return before Christmas ahead of schedule.
“It has been a tough three months to be honest, but I’m really happy to be back involved on the training pitches. Every footballer will tell you when you’re injured it’s hard to take, it’s been tough mentally and physically.
“But obviously I’m glad to see team doing so well, we’re top of the league and that’s what matters.
“I know I started the first four games but it’s going to be tough to get back into the side, the manager has recruited really well but I trust my own ability and hope to work my way back into the side.”
Like most Sky Blues players, Maddison was delighted to see former England star Joe Cole move to the Ricoh Arena from Aston Villa.
He has been taking tips and advice from Cole in recent weeks in order to improve his own career.
He added: “Joe’s a top man, I’ve been working closely with him recently as we both continue to get fit.
“I’ve really enjoyed working with him, obviously I watched him as a kid and I’m constantly asking him about his career and how to improve my game. Even sitting next to him in the changing room is an experience and we’re glad he’s here.”
Maddison is likely to feature for some of the club’s under-21 matches against Birmingham City on December 7 and Hull City on December 14 before being thrown into the first team.
