England call-ups for Branthwaite and Gordon

Young duo receive first international recognition

WEB Jarrad Branthwaite and Anthony Gordon have received their first England call-ups but there was no place in the squad for Leeds United's Kalvin Phillips.

Branthwaite and Gordon rewarded for impressive form

Branthwaite, 20, has been in impressive form for Everton this season, making 15 appearances in all competitions. Gordon, 21, has also been a regular for the Toffees, scoring four goals in 16 games.

Phillips omitted after injury setback

Phillips, 27, has been out of action since September with a shoulder injury. The midfielder has been a key player for England in recent years, making 23 appearances and scoring one goal.

Southgate explains Phillips omission

England manager Gareth Southgate said he was "disappointed" to leave Phillips out of the squad but it was the "right decision" given his lack of match fitness.

"Kalvin is a very important player for us, but he hasn't played for a while and we have to be mindful of that," Southgate said.

"We have a lot of other midfield options available and we felt it was the right decision to give other players a chance."