Kyle Walker says he expects to miss England's opening World Cup Group G game through injury, but is confident he will be available for the Three Lions after Monday's clash with Iran.
Walker hasn't featured for Manchester City since limping out of the Manchester derby win over United in October, and the 32-year-old has explained the decision to undergo surgery on his groin to give him the best chance of playing a part in the World Cup.
The right-back is in training for England, but admits he won't feature against Iran on Monday. After that, he says he will be 'ready to go' for Gareth Southgate's side.
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"[Playing vs Iran] is down to the manager," Walker told ITV Sport. "I think the first game is a little too short but after that I will be good and ready to go."
Given his build-up to the tournament, Walker also revealed that he views this tournament as more special than his previous World Cups and European Championships, paying credit to staff at City for helping him recover in rapid time.
He explained: "To represent your country at any time is a great achievement, but this one is a special one due to the circumstances leading up to it just through the injury.
"It was an operation that I had and it was touch and go but full credit to the physios here and also at Manchester City for getting me back fit and healthy. I was never worried [I wouldn’t make it]. I always have the belief in myself.
"As soon as the professor said I needed the surgery I was confident. It was just about making sure I prepared right on and off the field so that I would be alright."
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