Leeds United duo in England frame, says Three Lions chief Gareth Southgate
Phillips has enjoyed another outstanding campaign for Championship leaders Leeds, with the devout hope of all sundry at Elland Road being that his development will continue apace in the top-flight with the Whites next season - when recognition for his country could also be on the radar.
White, on a season-long loan at Leeds, has been in peerless form since joining the club from Brighton last summer.
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Hide AdLeeds are desperate to retain the 22-year-old centre-back, who has played every single minute in every league game for Marcelo Bielsa’s side, and will target a permanent move should their season end in promotion.
Brighton manager Graham Potter will hold discussions with White - arguably the second-tier’s stand-out defender this season - regarding his future following the end of the 2019-20 season.
His performances have also resonated with Southgate, alongside those of Phillips.
It prompted Southgate’s decision to ‘name-check’ the pair as having the potential to ‘come late’ for his next tournament squads and having the quality to represent their country should they get their chance in the Premier League.
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Hide AdSouthgate said: “It could be a Ben White, who has been on loan at Leeds, or a Kalvin Phillips, that haven’t played Premier League football yet.
“Those sorts of players could come into the frame. We’re always open to what it looks like.”
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