'Can only get better' - Stuart Pearce makes exciting prediction about Man City youngster

Stuart Pearce believes Rico Lewis can replicate Kyle Walker’s longevity as one of England’s first-choice full-backs.

Manchester City ace Lewis, 19, has been recalled to the Three Lions squad by interim boss Lee Carsley for the upcoming Nations League clashes against Ireland and Finland.

Lewis made his international debut in England’s 1-1 draw in North Macedonia last year and despite not being part of Gareth Southgate’s squad that reached the Euro 2024 final, Lewis will have another chance to impress this week.

Right-back Walker, 34, was a key cog in the side that finished runners-up in Germany but did not feature in Carsley’s first squad having not yet played for City this season off the back of that tournament.

Walker has racked up 90 caps since his debut in 2011 and former England skipper and Manchester City boss Pearce, 62, believes versatile full-back Lewis has what it takes to follow in his experienced international footsteps.

“You look at someone like Rico and the experiences he’s had just playing alongside that group of players at Manchester City,” said Pearce, speaking as an ambassador of Pitching In around their Volunteer of the Season Award.

“Pep [Guardiola] seems to know the right times to put players into the team, and Rico is one of those. He’s an exciting talent, can only get better working under Pep at Manchester City.

“He’s been recognised now at international level which is fantastic at senior level – so it’s a great opportunity for him.

“Kyle Walker, at his age, and Kieran Trippier coming to an end, and all of a sudden this next generation of young players are coming through.”

Carsley’s side travel to Dublin this weekend for their first game since agonisingly losing to Spain in the Euro 2024