Stan Collymore blown away by Leeds star Kalvin Phillips
Stan Collymore was blown away by Leeds United star Kalvin Phillips for England in their 1-0 win over Croatia.
The Yorkshire Pirlo shined and was voted Man of the Match as the Three Lions took home all three points at Wembley.
Phillips grabbed the all-important assist for Raheem Sterling, and Collymore insisted that he cemented his spot in the side for further games.
Writing in his column for the Mirror, Collymore singled out the Leeds star for his amazing influence in the EUROs already.
“The performance against Croatia was pleasing overall with big green ticks next to the names of Kalvin Phillips, Tyrone Mings and Declan Rice in particular,” he said.
“Phillips was excellent. I thought he’d be tasked with a pure sitting role alongside Rice but he looked more capable at playing a central creating role than Mason Mount did ahead of him.
“The Leeds midfielder has pretty much cemented himself as a primary pick for Gareth Southgate now, alongside Jordan Pickford, Harry Maguire, when fit, John Stones, Rice and Harry Kane.”
Cemented?
It is hard to suggest whether or not Phillips is guaranteed a start, especially with Jordan Henderson and Jude Bellingham waiting for their chance.
Phillips was excellent, and one thing we can guarantee is that he will start against Scotland as Gareth Southgate takes it game-by-game.
It will be much more hostile at Wembley for that one on Friday, and Phillips will need to be at his best for the battle against the likes of John McGinn.
McGinn may not be as skilful as Luka Modric but he certainly has a lot more power, and that is a real weapon for the Scots.
Time will tell if he continues to shine, but at this rate, he is charging towards being in contention for the breakthrough player of the tournament.
In other Leeds United news, ‘Lovely’ – ITV pundit thrilled by what Whites star did in Russia on Monday