KALVIN PHILLIPS has admitted his doubt over whether he would be fit for the World Cup but remains “optimistic” he will get the nod from Gareth Southgate today.
The 26-year-old has become a key player for the Three Lions over the past 18 months and starred for his country at Euro 2020.
That led to a big-money move from Leeds United to Manchester City in the summer – but he has barely featured for the Cityzens.
The midfielder suffered a shoulder injury in September and was forced to undergo surgery after just three appearances for Pep Guardiola’s side.
That left him in a race against time for this month’s showpiece in Qatar.
However, Phillips made his comeback with a 40 minute cameo from the bench in City’s 2-0 Carabao Cup win over Chelsea last night.
And ahead of Southgate naming his World Cup squad this afternoon, the ace is hopeful that he has done enough to secure a seat on the plane to the Middle East with England.
He told Sky Sports: “It was an amazing feeling to come back. There’s been doubt with my shoulder and injury. It’s been a long time.
“Without playing football for a while, it’s going to be nerve wracking when you first step on the pitch. It felt good and it made it easier with the two goals going in straight away.”
Phillips continued: “It’s been difficult. When I first found out I needed the operation everything went out the window. I didn’t feel great about the situation.
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“But after a couple of days I always made sure I worked hard. I was always positive. I’m back fit now so hopefully I have a chance.
“A couple of days after the operation my thought was to get back into the club and do as much as I could to get fit. I did more sessions than I would have done to get my fitness back.”
With regards to England, he added: “I spoke to the staff and physios checking on my progress.
“Anything can happen. I’m optimistic but I know with the amount of game time I’ve had there’s always a doubt.
“With my injuries I’ve not been playing 100 per cent because of my shoulder.
“Now it’s sorted I can get back to what I was before and hopefully better with the coaching from Pep and everyone here. Hopefully it’ll put me in good stead.”
