Walker sees Man City comparisons as England aim to go one better at Euro 2024
Kyle Walker has won the lot with Manchester City - but the full-back has unfinished business with England.
Walker, 33, has lifted the Champions League, five Premier League titles, two FA Cups, four League Cups and the European Super Cup since he moved to the Etihad in a £50million deal in 2017. But the lightning-quick right-back has no plans to slow down - and he has set his sights on Euro glory next summer and a century of England caps.
Walker, who made his 80th appearance for his country in Friday night’s 2-0 victory over Malta at Wembley, said: “That’s why I’m still here, that’s why I’m still grinding it out at my age of 33, because I can see this team is something special. If I can add to what I’ve won and help this team get over the line and win something for the first time in a number of years, then fantastic.
“I relate back to the experience I had with Manchester City after we lost the Champions League final to Chelsea in Porto. I really feel that not many teams get to big finals and win straight away. You have to go through a little bit of a set-back sometimes.
“England have experienced a World Cup semi-final, we’ve experienced a final in the Euros - and hopefully next summer is our year. Another one of my big objectives is to keep playing for England. There are very few players that are in that bracket that have made it to the 100 club.
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Walker is a key figure with England have seemed to be on the way out (Getty Images)“If I can do that I’ll be over the moon. I first started in 2010 when I got my first call-up under Fabio Capello. To still be here after all these years, I have to say, is a credit to myself for looking after myself and keeping myself in the best shape. Once you reach certain milestones, you’re always looking at the next one. For me, the next one is the big hundred. If I can do that, it will be something that will be very special.”
Walker has lost none of his speed despite being seen as a veteran for both club and country. Four years ago his England career appeared over when Southgate left him out of the squad. And last summer, he seemed destined to join Harry Kane at Bayern Munich until Pep Guardiola stepped in to offer him a new contract and the City captaincy.
Walker tasted heartbreak with Man City before lifting the Champions LeagueWalker said: “I am never going to shy away from representing my country. Wherever I have to be, whatever country I have to be in, I’ll do it. First and foremost I want to put the badge on - it’s an honour to put the badge on. Then I’m a big believer in taking one game at a time. My full focus is on North Macedonia and then after that I’ll concentrate on doing my duties at Manchester City.
“I feel as fresh as a daisy. Sometimes it is a little bit tiring but I wouldn’t change my job for the world. I’m not going to start complaining now. The game has adapted. Sport science is completely different, which has helped me massively.
“I still do my gym work to make sure I get my muscles right and I’m still sharp. Everyone can play football out there. But when you play against the top 10 percent, you really have to be mentally switched on and focused.”
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