After an impressive performance this season, Fabian Delph has been called into Gareth Southgate’s England squad for the World Cup in Russia. The former Villa man, who signed for City for a mere £8m in 2015, makes his first appearance with the squad since November 2015.
It marks an amazing turnaround in fortunes for the midfielder, who struggled to even make the match day squad, let alone the first team. And his days at City seemed to have been numbered, with the arrival of players like Ilkay Gundogan, Bernardo Silva, Danilo and Benjamin Mendy.
But it really is no surprise Delph has been brought back into the England fold, and credit must be given to midfielder for sticking with the blues and fighting his way back to the first team. Admittedly, it was at the expense of Mendy, who has been out injured since September, but when Guardiola turned to Delph, the Yorkshire man took his chance. His performances have now not only earned Delph Premier League and League Cup winners medal, but a trip to Russia and a chance to take his versatility onto the international stage again.
However, his call-up has not gone down well with some supporters, particularly Arsenal fans, who believe Jack Wilshere should have got the nod over the City man. But the midfielder only completed a full ninety minutes in December 2017, and had struggled to make a start for Arsenal before then.
But no matter what other supporters think, if Delph gets his chance to in the England first team, there is no doubt that he will take it. He has earned it, he deserves it.
Well done Fabian and good luck in Russia.