Leeds haven’t had many England internationals pass through their ranks in recent years.
Fabian Delph and Lewis Cook have both earned caps for the Three Lions, but other than that it’s been a dry spell for one of England’s most historic clubs.
However, if recent reports (Telegraph via LeedsLive) are to be believed, one Elland Road star could be in line for a call-up sooner rather than later.
Indeed, the newspaper have reported that Kalvin Phillips may be called up to the England squad, but we have to wonder whether or not Southgate is looking at the right man.
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The England boss has been seen at Elland Road this season, reportedly looking at both Phillips and Ben White, and it seems as though he has been more impressed by the Yorkshire Pirlo than the Brighton loanee.
Now, Phillips is a fantastic player, and he has been hailed as the best in the Championship, but it’s difficult to say that he’s been in great form of late. His WhoScored average rating over the last 10 games is just 6.69.
In contrast, White is averaging a rating of 6.89 over his previous ten outings at centre-back, so it’s easy to see who is in better form.
Southgate has previously stated himself that he’ll only be picking players on form, so it’d make more sense for him to pick the defender.
On top of this, the centre-back position has been more of a problem position for Southgate than defensive midfield. Since his appointment he’s been desperately searching for the right player, calling up James Tarkowski, Alfie Mawson, Lewis Dunk, Tyrone Mings, Fikayo Tomori and Ben Gibson in a desperate effort to find the solution to his depth problem in that area. That’s alongside the usual suspects like Harry Maguire and John Stones.
Meanwhile, in midfield, he’s happily opted for either PFA Player of the Year candidate Jordan Henderson, or £90m rated Declan Rice, with the pair picking up 14 caps between them over the past 12 months.
We’re not saying that Phillips doesn’t deserve consideration, he’s been excellent, but his recent form indicates that the timing is off and there isn’t much need for further depth in his position.
In other news, one former star’s comments indicate that Leeds should change their stance on this man.
