In a late twist to Gareth Southgate’s squad selection, Southampton’s midfield maestro James Ward-Prowse has received an England call-up for the crucial World Cup Qualifiers this month. This development comes after Kalvin Phillips of Leeds United was forced to withdraw due to injury, shaking up the Three Lions’ midfield options just days before their important matches.
James Ward-Prowse brings set-piece expertise and midfield energy to the England squad after his previous Euro 2020 disappointment
Midfield Reshuffle for Crucial Qualifiers
The England medical team assessed Phillips following Leeds’ recent Premier League victory and determined the midfielder wasn’t fit to participate in the upcoming international fixtures. This creates a significant gap in Southgate’s plans, given Phillips’ instrumental role during England’s memorable Euro 2020 campaign.
Ward-Prowse, who already joined his teammates at St George’s Park, brings a different but equally valuable skill set to the squad. His inclusion marks a remarkable turnaround from his summer disappointment when he was cut from the final Euro 2020 roster despite participating in pre-tournament friendlies.
Betbuzz365 sources indicate that Southgate values Ward-Prowse’s exceptional set-piece delivery and work rate, qualities that could prove vital in breaking down defensive opponents.
England’s Qualification Pathway
The Three Lions face Andorra away on Saturday before returning to Wembley Stadium to host Hungary on Tuesday, October 12. With four matches remaining in Group I, England currently sit four points clear of second-placed Albania, putting them in a strong position to qualify automatically for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Kalvin Phillips formed a formidable partnership with Declan Rice during England’s Euro 2020 campaign, starting all seven matches
According to Betbuzz365 football analyst Michael Cartwright: “Phillips’ absence is undoubtedly a blow given his understanding with Declan Rice, but Ward-Prowse offers something different – incredible dead-ball precision and the ability to dictate tempo from deeper positions. This could be his opportunity to establish himself as a regular international player.”
Squad Depth Tested Early
Ward-Prowse isn’t the only late addition to Southgate’s plans. Chelsea’s Ben Chilwell and Roma’s Tammy Abraham also received call-ups after Reece James withdrew with an ankle injury. The Chelsea defender’s situation created some controversy, with manager Thomas Tuchel initially joking about a “misunderstanding” regarding James’ inclusion while training in the swimming pool during recovery.
The depth of Southgate’s squad is being tested earlier than expected, but it demonstrates the wealth of talent available to the England manager as he builds on the team’s Euro 2020 final appearance.
Tammy Abraham’s impressive start at Roma, contributing to four goals and hitting the woodwork six times, earned him an England recall
Abraham’s Italian Renaissance
Abraham’s recall merits particular attention given his exceptional start to life in Serie A. Since moving to Roma from Chelsea, the striker has found renewed confidence under José Mourinho’s management. While he hasn’t always found the net, his overall contribution to Roma’s attack has been substantial, with four goal contributions and six efforts striking the woodwork already this season.
Mourinho himself praised Abraham’s performance against Empoli, noting: “There are some strikers who can be the best on the pitch even without scoring, that’s exactly how it went for Tammy.” This all-around development in his game makes him a valuable option for Southgate alongside captain Harry Kane.
Looking Ahead to Qatar 2022
England will complete their qualifying campaign next month with home matches against Albania and an away trip to San Marino. While qualification appears likely, these upcoming matches provide crucial opportunities for players like Ward-Prowse to stake their claim for regular roles ahead of the World Cup.
The midfield composition remains particularly interesting, with Southgate having to balance defensive solidity against creative output. Ward-Prowse’s inclusion suggests the England manager is considering different tactical approaches for the contrasting challenges of Andorra’s likely deep defense and Hungary’s more aggressive approach.
Betbuzz365 will be closely monitoring how Southgate integrates these late additions into his tactical plans and whether Ward-Prowse can translate his club form onto the international stage.
James Ward-Prowse Secures England Call-Up as Phillips Withdraws: Betbuzz365 Analysis
The late reshuffle in England’s squad highlights both the fragility of international planning and the depth of talent available to Gareth Southgate. While Kalvin Phillips’ absence disrupts the established midfield partnership with Declan Rice, James Ward-Prowse offers a different dimension with his exceptional set-piece delivery and engine-room energy.
As England continue their march toward World Cup qualification, these squad adjustments test the team’s adaptability and depth—both crucial factors for success in major tournaments. The coming matches will reveal whether Ward-Prowse can seize this unexpected opportunity to establish himself as a regular in Southgate’s plans.
What are your thoughts on England’s midfield options without Kalvin Phillips? Can Ward-Prowse fill the void effectively? Share your opinions and join the conversation below!
