James Maddison OUT of England training again with midfielder sweating on World Cup 2022 spot just hours before Iran game

JAMES MADDISON is a major injury doubt for England’s World Cup opener against Iran.

The midfielder was unable to take part in training once again today.

Richard Pelham / The Sun

PA

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England players trained for the final time before taking on Iran tomorrow[/caption]

It means Maddison is still yet to train with the Three Lions squad since flying out to Qatar.

The Leicester star is struggling with a knee issue which forced him off during a match against West Ham last week.

But England are unable to call up a different player as teams cannot replace players less than 24 hours before kick-off.

Gareth Southgate’s side began training on Thursday and also had a session on Friday – both in 33C heat.

Players used misting machines by the side of the pitch to cool off – leading some fans to worry they may not be ready to take on Iran on Monday.

But Maddison was absent, only turning up for the pre-training talk conducted by the manager.

He now faces a race to be fit in time with group games against the USA and Wales to follow.

Every other England player has trained in all three sessions – including Manchester City star Kyle Walker who had been out injured.

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Maddison had tried to downplay his injury, tweeting last week: “Injury isn’t too bad!”

“A small problem that was causing a bit of soreness. Can’t wait to meet up with the lads Monday.”