Today (June 12) was supposed to mark the start of Euro 2020 and another period of hope and inevitable despair for supporters of the England football team.
However, due to the global pandemic that has changed the world’s landscape, we’re instead awaiting the return of English club football in five days time.
It has been hard to find any positives in such an unsettling period, but the 12-month delay to the European Championships could be a blessing in disguise for Gareth Southgate.
With a young team already at his disposal, the next year gives his squad more time to develop, mature and get valuable top-level international minutes under their belt.
It will also provide a chance for the emergence of new talent, with Southgate showing in his tenure that he is prepared to give anyone a chance if their form warrants a call-up for their country.
One name that is almost certain to emerge from the pack is Leeds United midfielder Kalvin Phillips, with his side on the cusp of promotion to the Premier League.
It is very rare that a player with no top-flight experience is so widely predicted to produce the goods at the elite level, but with Phillips there is no doubts.
Rated as the best player currently playing in the Championship, the 24-year-old has come through a tricky spell early in his career to thrive under Marcelo Bielsa.
Since the Argentine’s arrival as head coach, Phillips’ game has propelled to a new level and many believe he is the no-nonsense ball-playing midfielder England need.
The hometown hero of Elland Road seemingly has it all with Bielsa’s intense, relentless and all-action style suiting him down to the ground.
He is arguably Leeds’ most consistent player and having seen a lot of turmoil unfold since he arrived in the club’s academy, the 16-year wait for top-flight football could finally end just at the right time.
Phillips will be 25 next year and his first year in the Premier League will be succeeded by an international tournament, giving him huge incentive to produce his best week on week.
Having showcased his strength, skill and agility in the Championship, Premier League football will suit Phillips’ game no end and will see his career go to the next level.
That will almost certainly lead to an England call-up early next season and a chance to showcase his ability on the international stage to Southgate and the nation.
His rise has been steady and in many ways unexpected, but Kalvin Phillips name will be heard a lot more in the coming months and if things play out as many pundits are predicting, he will be key to his countries chances of success at Euro 2021.
