Walker is looking to lay down a marker for an England starting berth at the World Cup in Russia with his performances

Kyle Walker is the most expensive defender of all time. Credit: PA

The most expensive defender ever in world football could surely be forgiven for assuming his starting place at the 2018 World Cup in Russia was secure?

England and Manchester City right-back, Kyle Walker, however, is not resting on his laurels. "You don't want to go to a World Cup and not play, not kick a ball," he said.

"The priority for anyone on that plane is to start the game. You don't want to go and be watching a World Cup."

It is a refreshing attitude from a player whose club team is excelling in the Premier League. Threatening to run away with it, City have demolished all challengers, with Walker very much a part of their unbeaten start to the new campaign.

It is a unique situation then, that Walker finds himself in. With the likes of Spurs' Kieran Trippier and Liverpool's duo of Joe Gomez and Nathaniel Clyne all breathing down his neck, despite his excellent club form. the Sheffield-born defender's position is under threat.

Speaking to ITV's Gabriel Clarke, Walker confirmed the competition for places, "I'm never safe and that is what you need, you know. It is good to have competition throughout the squad for places.

"You could say that. You could say it's a mixed reaction [when another player excels in your position].

"We are all on our toes because he [Southgate] bases it off of training. He has not got a team in his head, before the games you come here and you impress."

Walker's attitude is refreshing. Refreshing in a side with a seemingly higher number of starting berths up for grabs than any other in recent England memory.

Under Guardiola's tutelage, Walker has excelled for Manchester City this season. Credit: PA

Gareth Southgate's promotion of youth is an admirable strategy and a bold one at that. A lack of big-game experience will surely count against the Three Lions deep into a World Cup tournament, should they get there.

"In big games and big moments you do need your experienced players who have been there and done it before," said Walker.

"But also, to have a bit of youth in there... They proved what it is all about [On Friday night against Germany] just showing no fear and sometimes that is what you need.

"Us senior members could take a bit from that. Take a deep breath and play the football that gets us into the England team."