Pundit suggests ‘significant’ consequences after ‘big’ Kyle Walker news at Man City
Noel Whelan has insisted Man City star Kyle Walker must play if England are to have any chance of winning the World Cup in December.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, conceded Pep Guardiola’s side will manage in the injury absence of the 32-year-old.
Man City confirmed via club media on Thursday (6 October) that Walker has undergone successful surgery on a groin injury sustained during the 6-3 win over Man United last week (2 October).
According to Sky Sports (6 October), the right-back is a “doubt” for November’s World Cup finals – with the next fortnight of recovery “key” to his chances of making England’s squad.
The four-time Premier League winner, who has amassed 70 England caps, was a key part of the Three Lions side at the 2018 World Cup and Euro 2020.
Whelan hailed Walker’s flexibility – which has seen him play both centre-back and wing-back for Gareth Southgate’s side.
He told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “I still believe he’s the best full-back England have got.
“There’s nobody better, stronger, quicker, more experienced than Kyle Walker. He’s been very consistent for club and country, and he’s a voice in the dressing room.
“He would be a big miss if he’s out for the World Cup, but I believe Man City can cope without him.
“They’ve got replacements, and they have the forward line to hurt any team they might come up against.
“But for England, if they want to win the tournament he’s got to be playing.
“Either in that centre-back role in a three or at right-back. They’d be significantly weaker without him.”
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