With Euro 2020 cancelled due to the global pandemic, England boss Gareth Southgate has another year to think about his squad for the next big tournament.
That’s another year of development for the likes of Trent Alexander-Arnold, Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Jadon Sancho, whilst some players will feel that they can force their way into the squad.
Central midfield is one area up for debate. Jordan Henderson’s spot should be safe, but who partners him in the engine room isn’t so obvious.
Eric Dier, Declan Rice and Harry Winks are the main names in the frame, but could Kalvin Phillips make a late run for the squad?
The Leeds United star has excelled under Marcelo Bielsa, making himself one of the top English midfielders around – but as a Championship player, England recognition is difficult.
With Leeds surely on the verge of promotion, the 24-year-old should soon have the chance to play in the Premier League – and possibly impress Southgate.
Now, ex-Leeds United boss Neil Redfearn has told The Scarborough News that he thinks Phillips should be in the England setup, as West Ham star Rice isn’t in the same ilk as Phillips.
Those bold comments have sparked reactions from West Ham fans, who have been laughing at Redfearn whilst calling his comments ‘far-fetched’.
Others think that whilst Phillips is a fine player, he simply can’t be compared to Rice until he has spent a couple of seasons in the Premier League – and some pointed out that Rice is already an England regular whilst being three years younger than Phillips.
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