Gareth Southgate issues Kalvin Phillips with enormous praise after Leeds United star excels for England

ENGLAND boss Gareth Southgate served up enormous praise for Leeds United's Kalvin Phillips after the Whites midfielder excelled on his major international tournament debut.
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Phillips only made his England debut last September but the Whites midfielder was named in Southgate's starting XI as the Three Lions began their bid for Euro 2020 glory with Sunday's Group D opener against Croatia at Wembley.

In just his ninth outing for his country, Phillips shone throughout and set up the only goal of the game in the 57th minute as his strong run and neat through ball provided an opening for Raheem Sterling to fire Southgate's side ahead.

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"I think Kalvin is a player who is so understated and has had a fantastic start to his international career," said Southgate, speaking to BBC Sport.

WINNING START: England boss Gareth Southgate celebrates his side's 1-0 victory against Croatia in their Euros 2020 opener in which Leeds United's Kalvin Phillips set up the winner. Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images.WINNING START: England boss Gareth Southgate celebrates his side's 1-0 victory against Croatia in their Euros 2020 opener in which Leeds United's Kalvin Phillips set up the winner. Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images.
WINNING START: England boss Gareth Southgate celebrates his side's 1-0 victory against Croatia in their Euros 2020 opener in which Leeds United's Kalvin Phillips set up the winner. Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images.

"I thought he was immense throughout the game, as they all were and I am so pleased for Raheem.

"He has had this hex if you like in tournaments, not being able to get the goal but I thought he was dangerous all day, right form the start.

"I am really pleased for all of them."

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Thank you Laura Collins