Noni Madueke: Things to know about the English attacker starring in the Eredivisie
By Harry Symeou
Noni Madueke is a London-born winger making quite the name for himself in the Eredivisie, having enjoyed much success in his breakthrough season.
The youngster made a big leap in moving away from home to sign for PSV Eindhoven back in the summer of 2018 and was included in the England Under-21s squad for the 2021 European Under-21 Championship.
Let's get to know the youngster a little better, shall we?
1. Was expected to make his breakthrough at Spurs
Madueke excelled during his time at Tottenham, impressing in the club's academy teams, and was touted to be a future star for the Lilywhites.
However, aged 16 he decided he wanted a clearer path to first-team football and decided a move to Eindhoven would be the best move for his future prospects, leaving those who had recognised and nurtured his talent from an early age disappointed.
2. Rejected a move to Manchester United
At the time Madueke was contemplating his move to the Netherlands, Manchester United were said to have offered him a contract.
The lure of one of the world's biggest football clubs would have turned his head at the very least, but given he left London in search of a 'clearer path to first-team football', a move to United wouldn't have made much sense.
3. Switched positions at PSV Eindhoven
The England youth international wasn't always a winger. The flank is where he's made his name this season but when he arrived in Holland, he was a central attacking midfielder or number ten.
Former Manchester United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy is credited with the switch that has seen Madueke flourish. The Dutchman, a lethal striker in his day, felt he would be better suited to playing from wide and has assisted him in becoming more efficient in the final third.
4. He could still snub England at senior level
Although he has represented England at various levels, the youngster is also eligible to play for Nigeria and could still declare for the Super Eagles at senior level if he wishes to do so.
London-born but of Nigerian descent, Madueke has options. He opted to move to the Netherlands for the good of his career and if he struggles for a call up as a senior England international, he may consider switching his allegiances.