Kalvin Phillips is currently recovering from a shoulder injury from September that forced him to undergo surgery, putting his hopes of representing England at the 2022 Qatar World Cup in jeopardy.
The 26-year-old hasn’t played for England since June and hasn’t played for City since mid-September, so Pep Guardiola was asked whether he’ll be back in time for the tournament – England’s open with Iran is on November 21.
He said in Friday’s pre-match press conference: “If he is fit and can play (at the World Cup) he can play. But right now, we don’t know. (Phillips) is optimistic. (He is) in touch with Gareth (Southgate). Hopefully (he) can be ready and get selected.”
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Phillips has made only three appearances in all competitions since joining Manchester City from Leeds United over the summer, amassing just 13 minutes of playing time due to stiff competition from Rodri and injury woes.
The defensive-midfielder, who has made 23 caps for England, failed to make the Three Lions’ last squad due to his shoulder and doesn’t deserve to be called up based on merit. But Gareth Southgate may judge him on past performances and could pick Phillips if he’ll recover in time for the tournament.
As per Football London, the England manager has already named a 55-man provisional team for the World Cup without disclosing it publicly, so he’s made a decision on Phillips.
It’s likely the 26-year-old has made the initial squad, but his fitness will determine whether he remains in the team when it’s shortened to 26 players. England’s first group game is in less than four weeks, but Phillips could still make the cut with future matches in mind.
In other news, Pep Guardiola showers Julian Alvarez in praise
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