Tottenham Hotspur’s James Maddison has presented an Arsenal player with a ‘special’ birthday present after linking up with him on international duty.
Maddison has been a revelation since joining Ange Postecoglou’s ranks. The creative midfielder has been borderline unstoppable in his first four fixtures, scoring two goals and raking up two assists in the process.
His phenomenal start to life in North London has earned him a call-up to the national side, with Gareth Southgate’s men taking on Ukraine and Scotland over the next week.
Whilst there, Maddison decided to greet Arsenal superstar Bukayo Saka with a birthday gift.
Maddison has ‘special’ gift for Bukayo Saka
As the two met up for their nation’s duties, the pair set their rivalries aside and shared a lighthearted moment as Maddison had a ‘birthday gift’ for the Gunners winger.
As shown in a clip that went viral on social media, Maddison gifted Saka with the 2022/23 England Player of the Year award at the Three Lions’ training session on Tuesday.
“It’s actually Bukayo Saka’s birthday today,” Maddison said during the clip. “So, we are going to surprise him with a little present that we’ve sorted. He is the Men’s Player of the Year connected by EE for the second year running. But he doesn’t know, yet.”
Saka was then brought into the room, where Maddison continued on camera: “I’m hearing it’s a very special day. Just a little present from us… For the second year running, Bukayo is the Men’s Player of the Year connected by EE. So, congratulations brother and happy birthday. Well done, mate.”
The 26-year-old sealed it with a kiss, which was shared on England’s Instagram.
Rivalries set aside… for now
Despite Maddison not being at the club long, he’s already become a firm fan favourite. The sight of the pair being friendly on international break is fine, but best believe when it comes to the North London Derby – this will fly out the window.
It really isn’t far away. The first NLD of the season is on the 24th of September 2023, just the second matchday after the international break.
We expect the two won’t be as friendly as shown in the clip…
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