Leeds handed ‘perfect’ Phillips boost after confirmed news – Whelan
Noel Whelan was thrilled to see Kalvin Phillips play 90 minutes for Leeds United against Arsenal ahead of this weekend’s trip to Norwich City.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the League Cup clash was the “perfect” chance to get the 25-year-old up to speed.
As quoted by BBC Radio Leeds’ Adam Pope, Marcelo Bielsa confirmed Phillips came through Tuesday’s game unscathed after his injury layoff.
The Argentine manager confirmed the midfielder was “healthy” before last weekend’s game against Wolves.
However, he insisted it would have been “too quick” for the England international to return to the matchday squad.
Having seen Phillips see out the game against Arsenal, Whelan suggested the homegrown star would retain his place in the starting XI against Norwich.
Whelan told Football Insider’s Russell Edge: “Marcelo came out publicly and stressed that he’s fit but just not match going. He hadn’t had enough game time since the injury.
“That was a perfect opportunity to bed him back in against an Arsenal side that play the right way. He made it, to himself, that he got out of it what he needed.
“He gave the team what they needed, which only Kalvin can do. Now that 90 minutes has put him in contention and I’m sure he will start against Norwich.
“I think we all realise what an important game that is now. A very crucial stage of the season as well leading up to Christmas. The opportunity to get us three points which will be valuable right now, it really would be.”
Phillips has played six times for Leeds this season.
The Whites sit 17th in the table after one win, four draws and four defeats.
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