FROM TV BEERS TO 3 LIONS CHEERS

Phillips has come long way since watching World Cup 2018 on box

KALVIN PHILLIPS was at home with some friends and a few beers the last time England took part in a major tournament.

The Leeds star (left) had just bought his first house and couldn’t resist filling it with mates as Gareth Southgate’s men motored to the semi-finals of Russia 2018.

Fast forward to 2021 and those same mates won’t be going round to Phillips’ place this summer to gather round the television. That’s because the dynamic midfielder could well be taking centre stage on the big screen, having established himself as an integral part of Southgate’s plan to conquer Europe.

Phillips admits he is still pinching himself at his meteoric rise from a humble hopeful from the tough suburb of Wortley to international superstar.

He said: “During the last World Cup I’d just moved into my first house without my mum there and I had a few of my mates games.

“It was in the summer, it was warm and you just love watching international football.

“So to be here playing now and to have my friends and family messaging me saying, ‘I can’t believe you’re playing for England and doing all this stuff’ – it’s surreal.

“I have to pinch myself sometimes, but it’s one of those things where you’ve got to keep working hard – and I’ll keep doing that.”

The hard work Phillips has contributed to England’s engine room this season is now propelling him towards a place in Southgate’s final 23-man squad.

No one played more minutes than the Elland Road icon in the last three World Cup qualifiers, while Southgate spoke in glowing terms of the 25-year-old’s midfield performances alongside Declan Rice.

Phillips is now living the dream and starting to feel more comfortable at the highest level.

He said: “From the start of the season, I never really thought I around to watch the would be in this position. But whenever I have had the chance, I have just tried to do my best.

“The manager has seen that and he’s had the confidence to play me in the last three games. I’m very grateful for that.

“Coming into the England setup, there are a lot of quality players and they only help me. They spur me on to do better.”

Phillips is not afraid of losing his place and believes Southgate is the sort of boss who rewards those who put the time and effort in.

He added: “I think it’s only right that if you are performing, you should get the nod. That is the way the manager sees it.

“Over time, I have got more confident. Don’t get me wrong, the nerves are still there. Whenever I am called up or starting for England, the nerves are still there.

“What will happen if I do get called up? Buzzing! If I don’t, I will keep working hard and hopefully get called up for the next one.

“The sky’s the limit for me and I think if I keep working hard, then why not?”