Kalvin Phillips lauded after England Euro 2020 call

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Patrick Bamford has insisted to Sky Sports that Kalvin Phillips will bring something special to England at Euro 2020, insisting that his Leeds United teammate is one of the best holding midfielders in the Premier League.

Phillips was rewarded for his amazing first year in the top flight. He was named in Gareth Southgate’s 26-man squad for this summer.

It has been a remarkable journey for the 25-year-old. It is easy to forget that he seemed to be struggling to find a clear spot in the Leeds side just a few years ago.

Marcelo Bielsa’s arrival at Elland Road has seen his game transformed. He has been outstanding in holding midfield.

He made his international debut last year after helping Leeds to promotion. And he has since gone on to play superbly against some of the best midfielders in the top flight.

He faces a tough challenge forcing his way into the England side. Southgate also has Declan Rice and Jordan Henderson in the ranks.

But Bamford – who himself was incredibly unlucky to miss out on the 33-man squad – insisted that Phillips has a huge amount to offer.

“Every time he goes out there, he gives 100 per cent,” he told Sky Sports.

“I’ve seen the way that he’s grown as a player and he’s turned into one of the best holding midfielders in the Premier League.

“Jordan Henderson and Declan Rice are top players, which shows the strength, but I think that Kalvin can definitely offer something special to that England squad.”

Don’t be surprised to see Phillips surprise many for England at Euro 2020

The amount of game-time Phillips enjoys this summer may depend on Henderson’s fitness.

But given that he has been sidelined for so long, it seems more than likely that Phillips will get at least a fair share of opportunities.

If he does feature in a prominent role, he could potentially prove a surprise-package for the Three Lions.

Harry Kane recently lauded the Leeds star. And he is clearly a player that Southgate is a fan of.

He is also someone who can be pushed further forward. It was often Phillips pushing on when paired with Rice in the last international break.

Leeds fans would not be shocked if Phillips shines this summer. But perhaps those who have their doubts can expect to be silenced over the coming weeks.