Report: Everton star set for international call-up
If there’s been one Everton player who has emerged from the drudgery of this disappointing so far with significant credit, it’s defender Mason Holgate.
The 23-year-old has been in terrific form this campaign, solidifying himself as someone both former boss Marco Silva and current manager Carlo Ancelotti can lean on.
Now it appears that his improved performances have caught the attention of England manager Gareth Southgate.
The Daily Mirror reported on Monday that the Three Lions chief is preparing to hand the Everton star a call-up to the national team.
Southgate and his staff have watched Holgate in his last three games for the Blues, and have been significantly impressed by him.
The youngster’s versatility is a positive factor in his favour, and Southgate is now mulling a call-up for the March friendlies against Italy and Denmark.
Is this a deserved call-up?
Undoubtedly so, yes. Holgate has been fantastic this season. Plus, England aren’t exactly blessed with top-class centre halves. Holgate may not be elite yet, but there’s a chance he could become one.
In terms of England’s centre backs for Euro 2020, only Liverpool’s Joe Gomez and Manchester United’s Harry Maguire appear to be 100% sure of making the trip.
Beyond that it’s all over the place, with people like John Stones, Michael Keane, Tyrone Mings and now Holgate competing for a place on the plane. But yes, Holgate’s been good enough to get a chance in these two friendly games.
In other Everton news, a former Premier League striker has claimed that a Toffees star is fighting for his place at the club.