RALPH Hasenhuttl revealed he had a recent conversation with England’s assistant coach about Kyle Walker-Peters, insisting: “They know my opinion on him.” Gareth Southgate, who is supported by assistants Steve Holland and Chris Powell, has called 24-year-old Walker-Peters to the England squad for a first time. The Saints star benefitted from a squad shake-up with full-backs Reece James and Trent Alexander-Arnold among those who have not joined up with the camp this month. Speaking before the decision to give under-20 World Cup-winner Walker-Peters his first senior England experience was made, Hasenhuttl revealed a conversation which could have worked in the former Tottenham man’s favour.
Ralph Hasenhuttl said: “We had somebody, the assistant coach with the national team was here two or three weeks ago and they know my opinion on Kyle Walker-Peters. Everyone has seen what a fantastic job he has done on both sides, he did it fantastic. (He is) absolutely a guy to look at and it would be great for him, definitely.”
Walker-Peters could now make his England debut on Saturday, March 26, versus Switzerland, before facing the African nation on Tuesday, March 29. He will join Saints captain James Ward-Prowse in the Three Lions squad. Earlier this month, Walker-Peters told the Daily Echo that he had ambitions of playing for England, but that his focus was solely on Saints.
Kyle Walker-Petrs said: “You know, I’m really happy with my performances this season. I think I’ve done a good job and it’s being recognised which is nice. Of course, I’d love to represent England, but that’s down to the manager. My main focus is performing as well as I can for Southampton and hopefully that will give me the opportunity to go with England.”
