‘It’s a massive signing’ – West Ham expert suggests new role for Kalvin Phillips
David Moyes “needs” to play Kalvin Phillips in a deep role to allow West Ham United’s attacking stars to flourish further up the field.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, former Hammers and Celtic striker Frank McAvennie admitted that Phillips won’t become the spine of the side, but will be crucial in changing the sides’ style of play.
Moyes has often been criticised by the Irons fanbase for his overly defensive style of play despite having a swathe of dynamic forward talent including Mohammed Kudus, Jarrod Bowen and Lucas Paqueta.
West Ham confirmed the England international’s loan move from Man City on Friday (26 January) which will see him stay at the London Stadium for the remainder of the season.
McAvennie is hopeful that signing the 28-year-old can unlock the full potential of these stars and insisted that Phillips will make the team play better.
“I don’t think he will be the spine of the team,” he told Football Insider.
“But, it’s a massive signing and it will change the whole team.
“He will sit in front of the defence and it frees everyone else up.
“Instead of getting everyone back, they can put Phillips in the middle and stop the ball from getting to anyone’s feet.
“It frees up that attack – I really hope that’s what Moyes does with him and I think he needs to.
“If that happens, then I think the fans will see a much better West Ham team.
“With the players we have, we should be playing better.
“And with Phillips, we can play better.”
In other news, Sources: 19-year-old rejects two Premier League offers to agree to join West Ham – he could then go out on loan.
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