Despite his form, Chris Smalling won’t be included in Southgate’s England squad for the Qatar 2022 World Cup, according to Jose Mourinho, the manager of Roma.
Mourinho acknowledges that the 32-year-old Roma defender has performed admirably enough to be included in the England team, but he also says he “feels sorry” for him.
He said that the England coach has constantly overlooked the defender as he has not played for England since 2017.
“If I were the coach of a national team, I would do anything to have someone like him at my disposal,” the Portuguese told reporters.
“I don’t think it’s a lack of respect to Gareth Southgate when I say that I feel very sorry for a player who’s playing at such a high level like Smalling and who won’t get the opportunity he deserves.”
The World Cup starts in November 2022 and national team handlers will be announcing their squad any moment from now.