Gareth Southgate has said that he has been “pleased” with how Rico Lewis has trained and settled into the England squad.
As quoted by the Telegraph, the Three Lions boss was quizzed about whether Lewis could play against North Macedonia and his ideal position for his nation in the future.
Gareth Southgate had plenty to say about the Manchester City defender.
Gareth Southgate says he has been “really pleased” with Rico Lewis
After being blooded into City’s first-team squad by Pep Guardiola last year, the teenager has turned heads with his performances, as he has a chance to earn his first cap for his nation at such a young age.
When quizzed about whether Rico Lewis could play a part against North Macedonia, Gareth Southgate said, “He is an option. He’s a versatile player.”
“I’m really pleased with how he’s trained, he’s settled really well. He’s very comfortable with the ball”, he claimed, as quoted by the Telegraph.
“He’s played there a few times. He’s played everywhere for City. Him and Cole [Palmer] are here because we believe in them and we wouldn’t hesitate to put him in.”
Gareth Southgate added that Rico Lewis could be used in midfield for England in the long run, saying, “Quite possibly.”
“It’s hard to say because City are quite unique in how they play. At junior level, he’s come through their academy at full-back, then this hybrid role since then.”
“Sometimes with young players, it’s great for their development to play different positions and in a couple of years maybe, that will be a little bit clearer.”
If the teenager improves his defending, he could become a regular starter for England
Perhaps one reason why managers such as Gareth Southgate may shy away from starting Rico Lewis is due to his defensive frailties.
Of course, Lewis is far from a calamity at the back but his reading of danger and duel-winning ability are areas that can be improved upon.
But if the youngster manages to do so, he has the technical ability to be viewed as a potential starter at right-back.
Even in midfield, in all fairness, if Rico Lewis adds a sense of security to the side off-the-ball, it will be tough to look past playing such a unique talent, whether that is as a No.8 or in an advanced role.
