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Comparisons with the great Andrea Pirlo may remain premature, but a demonstration of the rare blend Kalvin Phillips’ abilities represent came when he was selected by Gareth Southgate to play for England before he had ever featured in the Premier League. He is perhaps the most naturally gifted passer of the ball suited to playing as a defensive midfielder since Michael Carrick, oddly so often overlooked by Southgate’s predecessors, and contributes so much composure and vision from midfield for Leeds.
“The position he plays is a position where we need competition for places,” said Southgate, once forced to deputise in midfield for England long after having established himself in central defence, of Phillips. “The way that he plays the role and the way that he has been coached in the role is clear to see.”