Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has affirmed that is it "likely" that England duo Kalvin Phillips and Kyle Walker will be ready for the 2022 World Cup.
Phillips has been hampered with injuries since joining the Citizens from Leeds United over the summer, featuring for just 13 minutes across three appearances in all competitions so far this season.
The 26-year-old midfielder underwent shoulder surgery at the end of September, roughly a week before his teammate Walker underwent surgery on a groin problem which he sustained in the 6-3 derby win over Manchester United last month.
Both players still face a race against time to be fit for the World Cup, which begins for England with their opening Group B fixture against Iran on November 21.
However, Guardiola has provided a positive update on both Three Lions stars, with Phillips currently ahead of Walker in his recovery from injury.
© Reuters
Speaking at a press conference ahead of Man City's Champions League clash against Sevilla on Wednesday, Guardiola said: "It's likely [they can be ready for the World Cup], the way they recover.
"I don't know intentions for Gareth [Southgate]. He spoke with them regularly. They know better than me, What I hear in the dressing rooms can be ready. You don't play a World Cup every week.
"[Phillips] is doing partial sessions with the team. Contact not yet but we will see his evolution. We know how important the World Cup is but we can't use a player who is not ready.
"My feeling now is it will be tight [to make the World Cup]. There are many things involved. I don't think [he will play] against Fulham and even Brentford – it will be similar games to Leicester. We need players in the best condition.
"Kyle, I'm impressed how quick his recovery but still a bit late compared to Kalvin."
Man City have four games across all competitions before England manager Southgate has to confirm his 26-man squad on November 13.
© Reuters
Guardiola has also revealed that Cole Palmer will be assessed ahead of Wednesday's clash with Sevilla, while Erling Braut Haaland will not be involved as he continues to recover from "ligament damage".
Haaland was withdrawn at half time in last week's goalless draw with Borussia Dortmund after sustaining his injury, and he subsequently missed the 1-0 Premier League win over Leicester City on Saturday.
Guardiola has affirmed that he cannot take any risks with the Norwegian's injury, but he is optimistic that the striker can return in time for Saturday's Premier League game against Fulham.
"Tomorrow [Haaland] is not available," Guardiola added. "He feels better compared to Saturday and Sunday but he is not 100% and we don't want to take a risk, it makes no sense. Hopefully he will be back for Fulham. Every day he is feeling better."
Man City can afford to rest Haaland on Wednesday as they have already qualified for the last 16 of the Champions League as group winners.
The Citizens are yet to lose in Group G and could equal a Champions League record set by rivals Manchester United if they avoid defeat at the Etihad Stadium against Sevilla, who are guaranteed to finish third and drop down into the Europa League.
This article is provided in association with Betway - check out Betway's FIFA World Cup Odds!
Oliver Thomas
