As England prepare to face Denmark in the Euro 2020 semi-final on Wednesday, one player in particular might well be looking at just how far he’s come in such a short space of time.
Rewind the clock to this time last year and Kalvin Phillips had never been called up to a senior national squad nor had he ever played in the Premier League.
He was busy playing a crucial role in Leeds United’s promotion push. They had just secured a 3-1 win at Blackburn Rovers – a game in which Phillips scored – and were well on their way to promotion. They ended the elongated 2019-20 campaign with six straight wins to lift the title at a canter.
Within a few months Phillips, having impressed for United in their early games on their return to the top flight, was fielding calls from Gareth Southgate.
He made his Three Lions’ debut against Denmark on September 8 last year, in a goalless Nations League meeting.
How ironic then that those same opponents lie in wait for the last-four clash on Wednesday night almost ten months to the day since Phillips first pulled on his country’s shirt.
The 25-year-old’s impact on Southgate’s side should not be underestimated. He’s started all five games so far, providing a crucial presence in the engine room whether that’s in a more containing role or as a box-to-box technician.
He showed his composure and ability to assist with his crucial role in Raheem Sterling’s goal against Croatia in the opener.
Video Unavailable
What’s perhaps most impressive is the fact he is keeping Jordan Henderson out of the side, restricting the Liverpool captain to limited minutes off the bench.
Despite a whirlwind 12 months, you couldn’t dream of a better player to cope with such changes. Anyone who has spoken or been privy to his interviews will only know Phillips as being humble and down-to-earth.
That showed in a recent interview, done before the Germany game, where he spoke of still being “star struck” at the speed of his achievements.
“I think even the first time I joined up with the England team, I was a bit star struck to be honest,” Phillips said.
“It’s a nice moment for me. Looking back at where I used to play, reflect on how far I’ve come from when I was younger, and it’s always nice to see how well you’re doing.
“It’s still surreal. I still feel like a fan wanting to know who we’re going to play next, so it’s the same as it always has been. Obviously I’m in a different situation where I’m actually playing for England, but to be honest I don’t let that get to me.
“I love football, I love international football and I love England as well, so I just want to do my best and enjoy myself as much as possible.”
He will be hoping that enjoyment continues and that cap number 14 brings with it another win and the chance to contest a first major final in 55 years.
Sign up to the Mirror Football email here for the latest news and transfer gossip
