Gareth Southgate ‘closely following’ Kobbie Mainoo and two other youngsters for England’s March friendlies

Gareth Southgate is reportedly ‘closely monitoring’ three uncapped English players’ performances after Kalvin Phillips’ dreadful start to life at West Ham United, as per the Daily Mail.

In just four appearances for the Irons, the Manchester City loanee has made two mistakes which have led to goals for the opposition, and been sent off after receiving two yellow cards in a three-minute span. 

As such, Southgate may finally have to part ways with one of his trusty lieutenants and truthfully, he should’ve done so long ago.

The likes of Phillips, who was used sparingly at the Etihad and spent most of his time injured or on the bench, or Jordan Henderson, who gave up being Liverpool captain to claim a Saudi paycheck, got bored after six months and signed for Ajax, should be nowhere near the England squad at the Euros.

Three youngsters in consideration for maiden England call-ups

Mail’s update claims that Mainoo, Harrison Red and Carrington graduate James Garner have all sparked the attention of the Three Lions boss as he prepares for the team’s final two friendlies – against Brazil and Belgium in March – before this summer’s tournament.

All eyes will be on England as their squad contains some of the most prolific, world-class talents across Europe, so Southgate will know that his decisions won’t be taken lightly by fans if potential influential figures, like Mainoo, are left out in favour of underperforming players. 

The United starlet has made 11 consecutive starts in all competitions, excelling in each and receiving plaudits from anyone that’s laid on eyes on him.