Phillips fit for Manchester City return to boost England chances

The 26-year-old has been sidelined since September after undergoing surgery on a long-running shoulder problem, and was doubtful for the World Cup in Qatar.

Published : Nov 08, 2022 22:58 IST

Manager Pep Guardiola confirmed that Phillips will be a part of the squad facing Chelsea in the league cup.
Manager Pep Guardiola confirmed that Phillips will be a part of the squad facing Chelsea in the league cup. | Photo Credit: Reuters
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Manager Pep Guardiola confirmed that Phillips will be a part of the squad facing Chelsea in the league cup. | Photo Credit: Reuters

Kalvin Phillips will make his return to the Manchester City squad for Wednesday’s League Cup clash against Chelsea to boost the midfielder’s chances of being included in England’s World Cup squad.

Phillips was an ever-present in the England team that reached the final of Euro 2020, but has played just 13 minutes in a City shirt since joining from Leeds in July.

The 26-year-old has been sidelined since September after undergoing surgery on a long-running shoulder problem.

Kyle Walker is also a doubt for the World Cup as he races to recover from a groin injury and will not be involved against Chelsea.

England manager Gareth Southgate will name his squad for the tournament in Qatar on Thursday.

“It is up to Gareth,” said Guardiola on whether the duo will be fit for the World Cup.

“They are communicating with physios, and doctors and the English national team. Kalvin will be with the squad for the Chelsea game.”

Erling Haaland will not be heading to the World Cup as Norway failed to qualify, but could be rested by Guardiola in midweek as he recovers from a foot ligament injury.

Haaland came off the bench to score a 95th minute penalty to beat Fulham 2-1 in the Premier League on Saturday.

City have one more Premier League game, at home to Brentford on Saturday, before a five-week break for the World Cup.

“He is still not perfect,” added Guardiola on Haaland, who has scored 23 goals in 16 appearances for City.

“We will see tomorrow and Saturday. He is getting better.

“The main thing is the bone was not broken - the ligament is damaged a little bit, so he’s still not perfect right now, Guardiola said. ”

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