England attacking midfielder James Maddison is ‘definitely’ in a position to get some ‘minutes under his belt’ against Wales, according to injury expert Ben Dinnery.

The 26-year-old is yet to play a single minute at the World Cup for the Three Lions after suffering a knee problem on the eve of the showpiece event in Qatar.

England news – James Maddison

Maddison was initially unable to take part in England training due to his injury setback but finally managed to link up with his teammates ahead of tonight’s crucial Group B clash.

The Leicester City star, who earns £110,000-per-week, then revealed that he is ‘ready for the game’ against Wales and that his time on the treatment table was ‘frustrating’.

“It felt really good,” Maddison said on his return to the pitch. “It’s really nice to be back in training. It was frustrating.

“I was in good form and then I got that call-up that I was after, I got to Qatar and then I had that little problem that was keeping me inside for longer than I would have hoped. But I’ve been back out in full training for a few days, and I’m feeling good, feeling sharp, and ready for the game.”

What has Dinnery said about Maddison?

In an interview with GiveMeSport, Dinnery said: “The situation isn't ideal. I think England picking up maximum points in those first two games would have put them in a great position.

“And it's obviously Wales, and it's a big game, but it just would have afforded Gareth Southgate a little bit more flexibility in terms of maybe getting some of those fringe players involved.

Read more: World Cup 2022: Group B preview - England, Iran, Wales & USA

“The idea would have always been to get James Maddison playing, alongside Kyle Walker, in these group games. But the result of how that game is progressing will obviously determine how those players may be utilised.

“So, I think Maddison is definitely in a position to get minutes under his belt, he's only been on the sidelines for a very, very short period of time.”

Could Maddison play against Wales?

England have started with a midfield three made up of Declan Rice, Jude Bellingham, and Mason Mount in their first two fixtures of the World Cup against Iran and the USA.

However, The Telegraph have claimed that Liverpool’s Jordan Henderson is in line to come in for either Rice or Mount following the underwhelming display in the draw with America.

Maddison is likely going to have to settle for a place on the substitute’s bench this evening, although he will be hopeful of making a contribution on the pitch.