Gareth Southgate has shared how impressed he has been with Kyle Walker’s recent form for Manchester City.
The right-back, as well as his fellow teammates John Stones, Kalvin Phillips, Jack Grealish and Phil Foden, were all called up to be a part of England’s latest squad for their upcoming Euro 2024 qualifying games.
In terms of some of the other defensive options Southgate has picked for the squad, the likes of Trent Alexander-Arnold, Luke Shaw, Lewis Dunk and Tyrone Mings have been included.
Southgate highlights Walker’s impressive form
Speaking in his latest press conference, Southgate said this about Walker when asked about the inclusion of Alexander-Arnold in this latest squad, in particular.
He said: “I’ve always recognised his qualities as a player but he’s just been bloody unlucky that we’ve got Walker, who has just had three of the best games I’ve seen from a right back, [Kieran] Trippier who has probably been one of the outstanding players this season, Reece James also.”
The 32-year-old has been a prominent figure in the City team in recent weeks, completing the full 90 minutes in seven of their eight previous Premier League games.
He also played every minute across City’s semi-final Champions League matches against Real Madrid, facing off against Vinicius Junior and getting heavy praise for keeping the Brazilian quiet in the second leg.
His latest performance for the Citizens saw Walker play the full 1-1 draw against Brighton & Hove Albion last night, during which he won five of the seven duels he was involved in and successfully complete the three dribbles he attempted.
This further highlights how solid the full-back can be off the ball and how dangerous he can be on it.
With all of that in mind, it’s no surprise that the defender has found himself in the latest England squad and why the manager has been so impressed with him.
