2 Days to the 2022 World Cup Qatar: Kyle Walker Absent from England National Team Opening Match

England defender Kyle Walker. (Photo: Instagram.com/@kylewalker2)

JAKARTA - England defender Kyle Walker will definitely not appear in the inaugural match of the 2022 World Cup against Iran, Monday 21 November. He was only ready to play when the second match against the United States (US).

The Manchester City player is absent because his condition is not too fit after undergoing groin surgery. The injury also forced him to miss the last six months.

Although he has not been able to play in the opening match, Kyle has confirmed that he will be fit for the second match of Group B against the US, on November 26. Moreover, he is now also continuously under the supervision of a physiotherapist.

"If you look at the current situation, defending the national team is always a great achievement. It's just that because of injuries and surgery, I was doubtful about appearing", said Kyle Walker, quoted from Sky Sport on Friday, November 18.

"So far, credit deserves to go to the physiotherapists who made me fit and healthier. I've never been worried because I've always believed in myself. I really believe that, because I just need to prepare well, both on and off the pitch", he continued.

Kyle, who is confident that he can return to fitness, will in fact leave the decision to the coach for the second match later. If he got a chance, he obviously felt happy to take advantage of it.

"Whether I play or not, it's up to the coach. For the first game, it seems too soon, but I'm definitely better after that and ready to play in the second game", said the player who has 70 caps for the England national team.