Report: Leeds duo could join Kalvin Phillips in England side this month

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The Guardian have claimed that Gareth Southgate is considering England call-ups for Leeds United duo Patrick Bamford and Luke Ayling this month, as he picks his last England side before confirming a squad to compete at Euro 2021.

Kalvin Phillips is expected to return to the England fold having missed out during the last round of international fixtures through injury. The Leeds man has four England caps to his name, and has impressed for the Three Lions when given a chance.

But Phillips might be accompanied on England duty by two of his Leeds teammates. Bamford has long been linked with an England call-up after netting 13 goals in 28 Premier League outings – as well as laying on five assists during that time.

He was forced off against Chelsea after landing awkwardly during an aerial contest with Antonio Rudiger but the report indicates that he is fit. Right-back Ayling could also be included, despite the plethora of options at right-back.

TBR’s view – Bamford has a bigger chance of call-up than Ayling

Not only is Bamford right in and among the England options up front, but injuries have gone his way, too. Danny Ings and Callum Wilson are both sidelined through injury, while Chelsea’s Tammy Abraham is a doubt.

Other than Harry Kane and Dom Calvert-Lewin, England have little else in terms of centre-forwards and Bamford might be given a chance. Ayling, though, has a huge number of options ahead of him at right-back.

Kieran Trippier, Kyle Walker, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Reece James and Aaron Wan-Bissaka are all in with a shout of being called-up, as England take on San Marino, Albania and Poland in three 2022 World Cup qualifying fixtures this month.