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Kalvin Phillips shares how he reacted to maiden England call-up
Kalvin Phillips will not be playing for England this month after the Leeds United midfielder pulled out of the squad because of a knock.
The 25-year-old will be greatly missed by Gareth Southgate’s squad, but not many would have predicted that the Whites ace will become a key member of the Three Lions so soon.
Phillips earned his maiden England call-up last August, making his debut in a draw against Denmark in September 2020.
The Leeds star has revealed how he felt right after the moment Southgate phoned to break the news of his call-up to him.
Phillips told The Sun: “It was unbelievable. I can remember getting the call and I was ecstatic.
“As soon as I put the phone down I screamed at the top of my voice while I was on the way to training in my car.
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“My standout moments in football are scoring in my first ever game for Leeds at home. Obviously, winning the Championship with Leeds was special – and, of course, getting called up for England.”
Deserved
Phillips became the third player in the 21st century to represent England before making an appearance in the top division of a country, and he has justified his inclusion in the star-studded team.
He helped Leeds finish ninth on their return to the Premier League for the first time since 2004, earning a place as part of the Three Lions squad to the summer European Championship.
The Yorkshire Pirlo started every game at the tournament but could not inspire his side to victory in the final against Italy.
He deservedly emerged as England’s 2020-21 Men’s Player of the Year after eye-catching campaigns for both club and country, and it is not a surprise that he has been linked with some of the bigwigs in the top-flight and Europe.
Phillips is not ready to leave Leeds just yet, and will be looking to inspire them to another impressive finish in the Premier League table this term.
Marcelo Bielsa’s side picked up their first win of the campaign at the weekend against Watford, heading into the break with a huge boost, and they can expect to have their star player with his batteries fully recharged when action resumes.
In other Leeds United news, Simon Jordan has suggested Whites player should be blocked from int’l duty by PL.