Kalvin Phillips' moniker of the 'Yorkshire Pirlo' is well known among Leeds United supporters but even they must have been surprised by hearing that it had made it overseas as Italian commentators made reference to his nickname during England's 1-0 win over Croatia.
The Leeds United midfielder was granted his first-ever cap in a major international tournament when Gareth Southgate opted to pick him alongside Declan Rice for the Three Lions’ opening Euro 2020 Group D encounter against 2018’s World Cup finalists - and he proved himself worthy of selection, providing Raheem Sterling with the assist for the winning goal.
Phillips was also the only player to get a shot on target in the first half as well as completing 100% of his passes in the opening period of the Wembley encounter.
He capped the display by teeing up Sterling's opener as he cut inside his marker after a darting run from midfield before slipping the ball through for the Manchester City forward to score the only goal of the game.
And his performance was not lost on Italian commentators who, according to our colleagues at the Mirror, referred to him as the 'Yorkshire Pirlo' during live coverage of the game.
Andrea Pirlo is an Italian legend who earned 116 caps for his national side, as well as playing in Serie A for Juventus and AC Milan. He was known for his graceful style of play and brilliant long-passing ability. The former player is considered one of the world's most well-rounded deep-lying playmakers of all time.
Phillips earned his first call-up to the England side in 2020. Today’s selection at Wembley Stadium saw him secure his ninth international cap in total.
