‘That’s the beauty of football’ – Exclusive: Phillips says how Livermore may get England call-up
We’re delighted to welcome former West Brom striker Kevin Phillips as our exclusive columnist. Each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at The Hawthorns…
Kevin Phillips admits that West Brom captain Jake Livermore could get into the England squad if injury issues plague Gareth Southgate’s options next year.
The European Championships were set to take place this summer but due to the coronavirus crisis, they have been pushed back to 2021, handing players like Livermore, 30, and extra season to try and impress the England boss.
Livermore’s been brilliant for West Brom in the Championship this term and if Albion are able to win promotion, the midfielder could get a year in the Premier League to try and catch the eye of Southgate once again.
Phillips has already told West Brom News that he doesn’t believe that Livermore will be able to play his way into the England squad due to him being the wrong side of 30.
However if there are injuries, the ex-Baggies forwards admits it is a possibility.
“Of course and that’s the thing, that’s the beauty of football,” Phillips told West Brom News.
“Someone’s disappointment is someone’s gain. We’ve seen over the years with players getting injured so we will have to wait and see on that.
Livermore has been superb in blue and white stripes this season and deserves to be in contention for a call-up to the England squad.
Ex-Baggies captain Jonathan Greening has already told the Express & Star that he believes it’s something that could happen if Livermore continues to impress next season.
Livermore is likely to rely on injuries because there will be a few players ahead of him in Southgate’s pecking order for the defensive midfield role so, as Phillips says, don’t rule it out.
In other West Brom news, Albion’s turnover plunged by £54million after relegation.