England have been handed a potential World Cup boost with Pep Guardiola saying Manchester City duo Kyle Walker and Kalvin Phillips are ‘likely’ to be available for selection.
Phillips and Walker both played a key role in the Three Lions’ run to the final of Euro 2020 but they have struggled with injury this season, throwing their chances of making Southgate’s squad for Qatar into doubt.
Walker underwent groin surgery in early October, while Phillips has been battling a shoulder problem since his summer move from Leeds.
However, Guardiola believes both will be available when Gareth Southgate names his World Cup squad on November 10.
"It's likely [they will be ready], the way they recover," Guardiola said.
"I don't know intentions for Gareth. He spoke with the players and doctors regularly. They know better than me. What I hear in the dressing rooms is that they can be ready."
While you would probably expect Walker to be included in the England squad if fit, Phillips’ lack of football may ultimately hurt his chances more than his injury. He has struggled to force his way into Guardiola’s plans, and he doesn’t appear too receptive to the idea of doing Southgate any favours by giving him some pre-Qatar minutes.
When asked the likelihood of Phillips being given some games before the World Cup, Guardiola said: "We'll see his evolution.
“I know how important the World Cup is but I don't use a player I don't think is ready. Kyle, I'm impressed how quick his recovery (is) but still a bit late compared to Kalvin.”
Source : 90min