‘Another massive blow…’ – Pundit gutted as Man City player pulls out of int’l duty injured

Manchester City star Kalvin Phillips could be set to miss out on England’s World Cup squad later this year after suffering ‘another massive’ injury blow.

Since making his dream move to Manchester City in the summer, things have not gone according to plan for Kalvin Phillips.

Brought in as an understudy to Rodri in defensive midfield, the England international has barely got a feel of what it is like to play for the Sky Blues, with only 12 minutes of total game time under his belt so far.

The main factor behind the 26-year old’s little to no involvement at the Etihad Stadium has been his constant injury woes.

In what is reported to be nothing more than mere regular contact during a practice match, Phillips suffered a recurrence of his shoulder problems.

Pep Guardiola gave an update on the 26 year-olds shoulder problem by saying:” I don’t know (how long he will be out) – I’m not a doctor – but in a good way he can arrive for the World Cup. The doctor said the only solution right now is to do what he has to do. Now it will be not long but a little bit longer.”

While Kalvin Phillips’ absence is a major blow for Pep Guardiola and Manchester City, the hope remains that he returns to full fitness in order to become a vital contributor during the second-half of the season.

Speaking to Football Insider, Whelan, former top flight player and BBC pundit, said Phillips has been unfortunate with injuries throughout his career and this setback could hinder his chances of getting on the plane to Qatar in November.

“He was in the squad for the upcoming games. I think the lack of football isn’t good for any player – let alone someone who has just moved to another club.

“The shoulder injury is something that happened at Leeds United and that has recurred.

“It’s not been the start to the season that everyone expected from Phillips – and this is another massive blow for him.

“This was his time to put in a performance and show everyone what he’s all about.

“It might scupper his World Cup chances with the injury and the lack of game time. Gareth Southgate has got a big decision to make as we’ve not got long until the World Cup starts.”