Indeed, any player who has not been called up by the Swede by that point has virtually no chance of making a late bid for selection.

While the likes of outsiders Alan Smith, Scott Parker and Jermain Defoe will be watching Eriksson’s announcement with special interest on Saturday night, there is one other name who could yet emerge as a late contender.

The chances are that Wright-Phillips, 22, is a name for the future rather than this summer, but he has clearly impressed Eriksson with his form this season, especially in City’s recent 4-1 win against Manchester United.

The England coach, who was due to attend City’s game at Elland Road tonight, revealed: “There are a few England players for me to look at and of course I am looking forward to seeing Shaun Wright-Phillips play.”

Eriksson told the Football Association’s website, www.theFA.com: “He has done better and better this season and is scoring goals too now.

“If he continues like this, playing the same way every week, then it is sure I will be taking notice of him.”

Eriksson is not short of midfielders in his squad and the likes of not only David Beckham but also Kieron Dyer could yet bar Wright-Phillips’ path to a right-sided role for his country.

However, his development has been noted by many of his fellow professionals, with Chelsea left-back Wayne Bridge having admitted that the City winger is the most difficult opponent that he has faced this season.

Arsenal striker Dennis Bergkamp also told his club’s official programme: “A few of us have been talking about Shaun Wright-Phillips as he’s having a good year.

“I remember a few games this season when he has changed the game. I’m quite surprised how well he’s doing and, as he’s still young, maybe he will win the [Professional Footballers’ Association] young player of the year award.”