Paul Dickov has said that with Rodri set to be suspended for three games, Kalvin Phillips has a chance to rescue his Manchester City career.
Speaking on City’s post-match show after their 2-0 win against Nottingham Forest, the pundit gave his two cents on the £42 million (The Athletic) man.
Despite how underwhelming Kalvin Phillips’ time has been at Manchester City, Paul Dickov believes he could redeem himself by coming into the side for Rodri.
Paul Dickov highlights Kalvin Phillips redemption arc after Rodri suspension
Due to injuries and the Spaniard’s undeniable excellence, the Englishman, branded as ‘intelligent’ by Pep Guardiola has struggled to have any sort of an impact at the Etihad Stadium.
But with the 27-year-old now suspended for three games due to his rash sending off against Forest, Phillips could get a look in.
Paul Dickov has lauded Kalvin Phillips, saying that he has a chance to bounce back at Manchester City due to Rodri being unavailable for the upcoming three fixtures.
“What a great chance for Kalvin Phillips now. He’s not had the game time he wanted, his injuries…whatever last season and I thought he did really well when he came on today. Everybody at the club with Kalvin because he’s such a good guy, everybody’s so desperate for him to do well”, he said.
“He’s got a great chance coming up in the next few games to show everyone what he’s all about. He’s top.”
Whether Pep Guardiola banks on Kalvin Phillips is the question
While Paul Dickov is right, whether Pep Guardiola even picks Kalvin Phillips as the man to replace Rodri is still doubtful.
The treble-winner could start in the Carabao Cup against Newcastle United and potentially even against Wolves.
But with Matheus Nunes looking far more athletic than Kalvin Phillips and more composed on the ball, perhaps he could play as Manchester City’s starting defensive midfielder against Arsenal.
Similarly, with the experienced Mateo Kovacic also utilized in a deeper role in pre-season, he too could be an alternative.
As a result, one awaits to see whether Guardiola banks on Phillips in his countryman’s absence.
