It has been reported that Manchester City wonderkid Rico Lewis is set to earn his first senior England call-up.
This comes from The Athletic journalist David Ornstein ahead of the Three Lions’ upcoming friendlies against Malta and North Macedonia.
David Ornstein: Rico Lewis set for first senior England call-up
Back in January, it was revealed that the teenager had made an impression on many within the senior side’s camp and was considered a potential selection in the future.
Since breaking through into the Sky Blues’ first-team last season, the 18-year-old has emerged as a revelation, whether it be at right-back or in midfield.
Now, it has come to the fore that alongside former Manchester City teammate Cole Palmer, Rico Lewis is set to earn his first senior England call-up.
The report by David Ornstein for The Athletic adds that with recent injuries to Jude Bellingham, James Maddison and Callum Wilson, as well as Lewis Dunk expected to be sidelined with a knock, there was room in the roster for the versatile defender to make the cut.
Initially, however, Lee Carsley had selected the treble-winner in the England U-21 squad, with Gareth Southgate being happy for him to develop.
The Manchester City youngster would be so useful for Gareth Southgate
Rico Lewis’ tactical intelligence and technical security would make him a handy weapon for England boss Gareth Southgate.
Be it at right-back, as a holding midfielder, as a No.8 or behind the striker, Lewis can play all such roles to a high level.
Such versatility is valuable for any side and to add to that, the malleable defender could allow the Three Lions to control games at a far superior level.
The lack of this very trait has cost England far too many times, be it against Italy in the Euro 2020 final or against France at the World Cup last year as they tend to cede possession and soak pressure in such high-stakes affairs.
Rico Lewis’ technical excellence, calm temperament and education under Pep Guardiola will allow the English to call the shots, especially against elite opposition, which may help the nation end its arduous wait for a major international trophy.
