England begin their World Cup campaign against Iran at the Khalifa International Stadium on Monday, November 21, but Kyle Walker says he is likely to miss out due to injury.
He told reporters via Daily Mail: “That is down to the manager. I think the first game is a little too short but after that I will be good and ready to go.” Kieran Tripper is expected to start at right-back with a defence of John Stones, Eric Dier and Harry Maguire alongside him.
Walker was a surprise selection in England’s World Cup squad as he was still recovering from groin surgery, but Gareth Southgate picked him as he believes he’ll play a part in the group stages and knockout rounds if the Three Lions progress.
The 32-year-old has made eight appearances in all competitions for City this season, last featuring in the Sky Blues’ 6-3 win over Manchester United on October 2. Walker was substituted minutes before halftime and has gone on to miss City’s next 11 games across the board.
While an important player to Southgate, Vital Man City noted that Walker will be short of match fitness upon his return and may struggle to get his place back in England’s starting eleven if they enjoy a successful start to the World Cup, so time will tell what happens when he’s fully recovered.
In other news, Kyle Walker is fortunate to make England’s World Cup squad for Qatar
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