Kalvin Phillips: Leeds United set for ‘massive’ boost after Sky update – Whelan
A return to the Leeds United side for Kalvin Phillips will be “massive” for Marcelo Bielsa’s men, according to Noel Whelan.
The former Whites striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, suggested the 26-year-old’s midfield presence has been dearly missed.
Speaking in an interview with Sky Sports (27 January), Phillips insisted he is hoping to return to action in March – and confirmed his recovery is “all on track”.
Leeds United have been without the England international since he was forced off with a hamstring problem against Brentford in December 2021.
The Whites have won just twice in the midfielder’s absence this season.
Whelan claimed Phillips’ return is vital as the battle to remain in the Premier League becomes “closer” in the wake of a hectic winter transfer window.
“It would be massive to get him back soon,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“Especially in this second part of the season, as it gets closer down towards the bottom and teams around Leeds have made lots of signings.
“To have someone like Kalvin with his quality and the stability he brings to the side, it’s huge.
“His experience and what he brings to the team is so important. I think you can see that from the points that have been dropped in his absence this season.”
Thorp Arch academy graduate Phillips is out of contract at Leeds United in June 2024.
The 19-cap England star has made a total of 226 appearances for the Yorkshire side.
The Whites sit 15th in the Premier League and have a seven-point cushion to the drop zone.
In other news, Whelan thrilled by what he’s seen and heard about Leeds United starlet.