Kieran Gibbs could well be in the frame for a starting place in the England starting XI against Slovenia on Tuesday, having been called up as later cover to the squad following the laboured win over Malta last Saturday.
Gibbs has had limited opportunities at Arsenal over the last year following Nacho Monreal's impressive form at left back. With the international break in full swing, Gibbs had beengranted leaveby his club to spend some time away from the game.
OFFICIAL: Kieran Gibbs has replaced Ryan Bertrand in the England squad, who has pulled out due to injury. pic.twitter.com/KAMUgzaut7
However, whilst enjoying himself in the heat of Dubai, Gibbs received an unexpectedcall-up to the England squad after Ryan Bertrand suffered a hamstring injury against Malta last weekend.
With Tottenham's Danny Rose also an injury concern for the upcoming match against Slovenia, Gibbs could well find himself thrown into first team action for his country.
When discussing the situation at left back, interim manager Gareth Southgate said: "He (Rose) consciously kept himself back a bit in the second half so, for me, I know that's sensible, although I know people will want to see the team bomb forward but he managed his game.�
Although there is no guarantee that Gibbs will be starting the match, he was happy to return early from Dubai with the possibility of playing for his country. His last appearance for England was during afriendlymatch against France late last year.
Since then, the 27-year-old has been unable to make the national squads having fallen out of favour at Arsenal.
Despite the chance to move elsewhere in the summer, Gibbs is keen to win back his place in the Gunners' starting line up and will hope toimpress both GarethSouthgate and club manager Arsene Wenger if he plays against Slovenia.