World Cup hopes reignited for England's Fabian Delph
Fabian Delph could be nearing the end of his international exile, as Gareth Southgate made a visit to Manchester City ahead of his England World Cup squad selection.
Delph last represented England in 2015, earning his ninth cap, but City boss Pep Guardiola seemed to confirm that the versatile player is among those headed to the World Cup in Russia this summer.
Guardiola also dismissed speculation that Delph would be somewhat of a wild card for Southgate's England squad: ''Maybe it would be a risk if England don't take him to the World Cup.''
''Gareth Southgate was here, we spoke together about the English players in the team, he is delighted with all of them; John Stones, Kyle [Walker], all of them. Delph as well.''
''I would like to see Fabian Delph at the World Cup, of course it depends on Gareth, because I think he deserves it. He is a player who can play in different positions, when he plays, we always play good.''
''He helps us to play good football, to be better, to give an extra pass. And he has a good heart, he is a fantastic person.''
As for Delph's future at City, Guardiola was highly optimistic ahead of next season: ''I think he is a guy for the group. He encourages the guys playing in his position.''
''And he is an exceptional player. Our dream for next season would be for him to be regularly more fit than he was in the last two season, especially last season. But we are going to try and work on that.''