KALVIN SETS HIGH BAR IN POLE VAULT
Leeds star could step in for Henderson at Euros
ENGLAND’S last game before Gareth Southgate names his squad for the European Championship was a final trial for Kalvin Phillips. Paper handed in, his examination was one clear positive for the England manager.
When Phillips made his debut against Denmark last September in Copenhagen, he bore the look of a slightly startled rabbit. Only just a Premier League player after Leeds United’s promotion, another step up to international football looked beyond him at that stage.
But he has grown before Southgate’s eyes, and proved that the England manager’s initial hunch was spot on.
He is one of only five players to have started all three of these World Cup qualifiers – a sign of the faith Southgate has in him and the manager’s desire to squeeze as much experience as he can into the 25-year-old before the Euros.
That would appear to be a hint as to Southgate’s intentions although Phillips’s selection in the England 23 may ultimately depend on the fitness of Jordan Henderson, still sidelined with a groin injury.
Henderson, right, is likely to be back this month for Liverpool, if there are no complications, but Phillips has shown he can play his part if needed.
It is an argument whether England need two screening midfielders, and a frustration to many, but Southgate likes the insurance he and Declan
Rice offer as a pair. While that points to the cautious, pragmatic streak in Southgate, it is simplistic to see them as mere tailors’ dummies, giving Harry Maguire and John Stones someone to chat to during England attacks. Phillips did have some licence to roam forward last night and found himself in some semi-promising shooting positions, only to pass on the responsibility.A pity as he strikes a fine ball, but his main role is primarily destructive rather than constructive. Winning the ball back quickly has been one of England’s strengths in this international window and Phillips and Rice have played a key part in that. Operating in a congested midfield in the first half last night, with the Poles forming a five-man line, Phillips did the simple things well, recycling possession and helping to break up the visitors’ sorties at source.
When the Poles moved to 4-4-2 at the interval there was more space, but it remained a combative contest. Phillips needed treatment after winning a challenge against Piotr Zielinski and taking some afters for his trouble.
It was a physical affair of the kind rarely seen these days. The shoulder barge was back in vogue. Phillips did not mind.
His aim is to return to Elland Road after this break as more of a leader. Not an obvious characteristic, as his off-field nature is smily, easy-going – but he can fight the fight on it.
From the Championship to the European Championship in 12 months, for a player who had never previously featured for England at any level? It doesn’t sound so daft now.