Kyle Walker admits going ‘back to basics’ helped him overcome the disappointment of losing place
Kyle Walker admits he ‘HATE IT’ not to play amid his battle for playing time under Pep Guardiola… as he says he has ‘parked’ any grievances with the Man City manager to get his treble-chasing teammates to assist
- Right-back endured a difficult few months after losing his place in the squad
- John Stones has performed well in a hybrid role at right-back and midfield
- Kyle Walker explained how he has overcome recent disappointments
Kyle Walker endured a difficult few months for Manchester City, losing his place in the team to John Stones, who has thrived in a new hybrid midfield role.
Pep Guardiola, meanwhile, explained why Walker could not fill the position many believe was behind City’s resurgent form since winter turned into spring.
However, brought back for the FA Cup semi-final against Sheffield United last weekend, Walker was retained during the week for the crucial title battle with Arsenal.
His retention for Wednesday’s game leaves the door ajar for further chances as City chase the Treble, although the 32-year-old has been unable to ignore his role as a peripheral player of late.
Kyle Walker has admitted he has gone ‘back to basics’ to try and win back his spot on the team
The right-back has relinquished his place in recent months as Pep Guardiola managed to topple John Stones, making Manchester City even more formidable.
Speaking ahead of a crucial trip to Fulham on Sunday, Walker explained how he has managed to compartmentalize his disappointment in recent weeks and months.
“I’ve struggled sometimes when things didn’t go my way outside of football or a bit of bad form. I always think, go back to basics: what brought you to your happy place,” he said.
“Sometimes things are out of your control,” Walker added. “Everyone of us down there thinks they should play.
Walker said he has tried to “park” any complaints he has with the manager to help the team
“It’s how you react. I’m the worst, I hate not playing. But with my experience and age I think, “Okay, I’ll put the manager aside and be there for the team”.
“And I will make sure the boys have my support. Whether I was screaming in the dressing room beforehand, or like last season’s last game against Aston Villa, I was the one screaming and running down the touchline because it meant something to me.
“I had to do what I could as one of the captains to make sure the other guys got the win we needed.”
