Mens

Kalvin Phillips named in Gareth Southgate's England squad

Three Lions to face Iceland and Denmark in September clashes

26659.png

Leeds United midfielder Kalvin Phillips has been called upto Gareth Southgate's England squad for their Nations League fixtures next month.

England, who are playing for the first time since November, travel to Iceland on Saturday 5th September, before facing Denmark on Tuesday 8th September.

Phillips could become the first United player to feature for the Three Lions since Alan Smith, who came on as a substitute in their clash against Sweden in 2004.

The international call up for the Leeds born player comes after a fantastic season which included key goals against Birmingham and Blackburn,  and ended with promotion for his hometown club.

On being named in the Three Lions squad, Phillips said: "I'm buzzing. Never in a million years did I think I'd get into this position, but I'm here now and I can't thank Leeds United enough for helping me get there."

"Last night I heard the manager wanted to speak to me, then on the way to training today, he rang to say that he'd been watching me for a while and would like me to join up with the rest of the lads." 

"It's a big step but I'm going to take it and give it everything I can. It's massive for not just me, but also my family. I just want to push on, keep doing even better and see where it'll take me."

On his decision to include Kalvin within the latest England squad, Gareth Southgate said: "He's a player that we've watched a lot over the last 12 months. Leeds have had an outstanding way of playing, the position he plays is one where we need competition and the way he plays in that role is clear to see.

"I spoke to him this morning, which was a nice reminder of what it means for somebody to be in their first England squad. "It's a proud moment for him, his family and his club."

Related Content

  1. 01
  2. 02
  3. 03