Man City: Pundit verdict on Citizens star axe as Mbappe cited

By Kevin Campbell

1st Dec, 2022 | 12:15pm

Kylian Mbappe cited as Man City big name touted for axe - pundit

Kevin Campbell has claimed Man City star Kyle Walker should keep his place in the England lineup against Senegal on Sunday (4 December).

The former Arsenal striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, suggested the 32-year-old will be “key” to stopping France star Kylian Mbappe if the Three Lions progress to the quarter-finals.

Walker made his first appearance since 2 October and was part of the starting lineup as England ran out 3-0 winners over Wales on Tuesday (29 November).

The right-back missed the first two group matches as part of his recovery after undergoing surgery on a groin injury.

Kieran Trippier had been starting in his stead but was forced to move over to left-back after coming on as a substitute in the second half.

Walker is out of contract at the end of the 2023-24 season.

When asked if Walker will keep his place in the Three Lions lineup against Senegal, Campbell told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “I think so.

“We’re going to need him to play 75 minutes. I can see England beating Senegal, in which case we’re looking at France in the quarter-final.

“He’s going to be key to stopping the likes of Mbappe.

“We don’t want to look too far forward, but getting Walker up to speed is crucial because of the challenge ahead.

“England have got the squad to mix and match. We saw Trippier go to left-back, Trent Alexander-Arnold came on.

“It’s all about versatility and Gareth Southgate is a lucky manager.”

In other news, pundit suggests Bernardo Silva has rejected Man City offer to sign for new club.