MY AMERICAN DREAM

KYLE WALKER has given England a major fitness boost – and hopes to play in England’s group matches.

The Manchester City defender (left) has ruled himself out of the opener with Iran next Monday but there is a plan to give him minutes in the second game against the USA.

He is still recovering after groin surgery last month, but trained with the rest of the 26-man squad yesterday. Now Walker is hoping to be fit in time to start the final group encounter with Wales.

He is a key part of Gareth Southgate’s squad and insists he never even feared he would miss the tournament.

Walker said: “It was touch and go at one stage but full credit to the physios to get me fit and healthy and I was confident after the surgery.

“It is down to the manager now. I think the first game is a little too soon but after that I will be good and ready to go.”