Gareth Southgate has shared what he told Kalvin Phillips after dropping him from the England squad.
The first international break of 2024 is nearly upon us and Gareth Southgate has now named his England squad for the upcoming fixtures.
With Euro 2024 looming on the horizon, the Three Lions will play two friendlies next week as they prepare for the tournament.
First up is Brazil on Saturday, March 23, before they then take on Belgium the following Tuesday, both at Wembley.
Manchester City are strongly represented with Kyle Walker, John Stones and Phil Foden all in the squad, while former Blue Cole Palmer has also made the cut.
But there is no room for Kalvin Phillips, who has been dropped out of the squad as his struggles for form have continued.
The defensive midfielder hardly played again for City this season and has struggled to get back to his best since joining West Ham on loan.
Southgate still rates Phillips highly but just couldn’t pick him this time.
Gareth Southgate on Kalvin Phillips
Speaking in a press conference, Southgate said: “I think he knows exactly what we think of him.
“I think we’ve shown that support. A good version of him is an important player for us.
“And that’s why we’ve supported him as we have. We don’t have many players of that profile.
“So unfortunately his form just hasn’t been good enough. I’ve spoken to him about that. He understands.
“He’s got all the attributes to force his way back in and we’re really keen for him to do that.
“I said towards the end of last year when we were picking squads, if he continued not play at City that was going to be a problem.
“He just needs to find that rhythm and confidence because there’s an outstanding player in there and I’m sure he’ll find that.”
Hope yet for Phillips
Phillips’ chances of making it to Germany seem minuscule right now but it looks as though Southgate has left the door open for him.
If he can turn his form around at West Ham, play regularly and regain his confidence, there is still a chance he could make the squad for the tournament.
England aren’t blessed with many defensive midfielders and Phillips has proven very useful in the past.
