Todd Cantwell opens up on Rangers opportunity as he looks to travel the James Maddison path to glory

Todd Cantwell can call James Maddison if he ever wants pointed in a certain direction.

But, although he has embarked on a different journey than his old mate since their days together at Norwich, he believes he can finish up in the same place. At the top. Cantwell and Maddison were together as youngsters at Carrow Road. Both playmakers forged their way into the first-team. Fifteen months his senior, Maddison had used loan spells at his first club Coventry and Aberdeen to speed onto the next level.

From Norfolk, it was a £20 million move to Leicester City, a starring role in the Premier League and a place in the England squad for the World Cup in Qatar. Cantwell has taken his own path. Loans at Fortuna Sittard and Bournemouth preceded his permanent move away from the Canaries. Maddison’s ascent in the game may have been faster, but now at Rangers, Cantwell has the perfect platform to scale similar heights.

He said: “Definitely. I have had a taste of it. I have played in the Premier League, I have scored goals. I have played against the best teams and played well. I don’t doubt my ability.

“Everyone’s journeys and situations are different. He [Maddison] is a fantastic footballer and he has done amazing things in his career so far. I have kept in touch with him. It is difficult when you have such busy schedules, as you will be aware. There are lots of games going on and bits and pieces.

“Listen, if I needed any advice from him, I am sure he would reply, that is for sure. I think every footballer wants to play at the highest level, they want to believe in themselves and try and get themselves there. For me coming here, it is important to get back playing and enjoying myself. That is my priority at the moment and the rest