MY ACCOUNT
England’s 26-man World Cup squad has been named and many of the Three Lions aces have been expressing their delight on social media.
Gareth Southgate had a number of big decisions to make, with the likes of Ivan Toney, Tammy Abraham and James Ward-Prowse all left out, but for those that are boarding the plane to Qatar, it is a special moment.
Here is the pick of the best reaction across the internet.
Phil Foden
Manchester City playmaker Phil Foden played a cameo role in England’s run to the Euro 2020 final and is now set to feature at a World Cup for the first time.
Foden has just two goals in 18 appearances for the Three Lions but will be eager to make more match-winning contributions, starting with England’s opener against Iran on November 21.
The 22-year-old said: “It’s always an honour to be called up to the England squad but this is something else, my first World Cup, wow! Buzzin’! Can’t wait.”
Mason Mount
Chelsea midfielder Mason Mount gave a heartful reaction to his selection on social media.
The 23-year-old said: “Looking back at seven-year-old me, sat on the stairs on holiday with my oversized England kit and St George’s face paint watching the 2006 World Cup, I could only ever dream of one day having the honour to play even a small part in one.
“Now that day has come and what an incredible feeling this is. I think back to the hours of sacrifice my family, friends and coaches all put in for me, and how I wouldn’t be here without them.
“We want to make our country proud and bring it home. Come on England!”
Kalvin Phillips
Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips made his first appearance in almost two months in last night’s 2-0 Carabao Cup win over Chelsea and is still a major doubt to make Southgate’s starting XI.
The 26-year-old was over the moon to have returned to action in the nick of time.
He said: “Buzzing is an understatement!
“I’ve dreamt of the call to represent my country at the World Cup since I can remember.
“I can’t thank the England manager and staff enough for their faith in me, and I’ll do everything I can to repay that in Qatar. Bring on the World Cup!”
Jordan Pickford
Everton keeper Jordan Pickford is likely to be Southgate’s No1 having been a reliable man behind the sticks at both the 2018 World Cup and Euro 2020.
Pickford, 28, has kept 20 clean sheets in 45 games for his country and will need to be at his best to help the Three Lions reach the business end of the tournament again this time around.
He said: “Delighted to be called to the World Cup!
“Always an honour to represent my country and make the nation proud.”
Raheem Sterling
Sterling is set to feature in his third World Cup.
And the Chelsea man, 27, will provide plenty of experience to boss Southgate.
Only Harry Kane has made more appearances (58) and been directly involved in more goals (57) for England under Southgate than Sterling (52 apps, 29 combined goals and assists).
John Stones
Manchester City defender John Stones faced a race against time to prove his fitness following a hamstring problem.
But the Yorkshireman will now hope to add to his 59 caps in Qatar.
He said: “An honour to be called up to play for my country in another World Cup.
“Since I was a young kid growing up in Barnsley I always dreamt of playing in the World Cup one day.
“But to be able do it more than once is so special. Come on England”
Kieran Trippier
Newcastle full-back Kieran Tripper scored a memorable goal in England’s World Cup semi-final defeat to Croatia in 2018 and will have another chance to impress on the global stage in Qatar.
Trippier, 32, is thriving under Eddie Howe on Tyneside and comes into the tournament full of confidence.
He said: “Delighted to be called up to represent England at this year’s World Cup!
“It’s always an honour to be involved with the squad and I can’t wait to meet up with the boys. Let’s do everyone proud!”
