GARETH SOUTHGATE has cast doubt over Ivan Toney’s World Cup dream.
The Brentford striker, 26, got his first call-up after five Prem goals this season but was not named in the 23-man squad for Friday’s 1-0 loss to Italy.
Southgate will once again have to leave five of his 28 players out of the squad for the home game with Germany due to Nations League rules.
The England boss said: “I understand the push as it is so close to the World Cup but there is life for Ivan Toney beyond the World Cup as well.
“He is very much in the frame and what he does with his club between now and then is also really important.
“First and foremost, it has been great for Ivan to be with us and see how we work.
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“Everybody wants to get into the team and on to the pitch.
“But you have a better chance of doing that if you have been in the group longer and are used to how we play and feel more comfortable with the players.”
Southgate also revealed he is unsure if Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips’ shoulder problem could see him miss the World Cup.
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The 26-year-old has failed to make much of an impact for the Premier League champs following his £45m move from Leeds.
He said: “The honest answer on the injury is we don’t know.”
Southgate is set to make changes tomorrow night but Newcastle keeper Nick Pope should keep his place.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
