If the script had it down as a perfect final audition for James Maddison at St James' Park, it is fair to say Dean Smith had other ideas. The interim Leicester City boss made the bold pre-match call of benching both Maddison and Harvey Barnes for the do-or-die showdown with Newcastle United, and was arguably rewarded with a point which could prove priceless come the final day.
Maddison was introduced at the interval following a half where the Foxes proved incapable of retaining possession. However, it was a case of more of the same as the playmaker had to showcase his work rate rather than his talents on the ball.
Leicester did not record their first shot on target till added time, and it was Maddison's delivery which forced Nick Pope to make a fine reaction save from Timothy Castagne's instinctive effort. Frustrating as it was, the stalemate was still job done for Eddie Howe's side with qualification for next season's Champions League secured.
