Leeds United employee issues emphatic Kalvin Phillips verdict after Twitter reveal
Noel Whelan has hailed Kalvin Phillips for his exemplary exit from Leeds United after he completed his big-money move to Man City.
The former Whites striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the Elland Road faithful will wish the 26-year-old “the best” after the way he conducted himself during the move.
Man City confirmed the signing of Phillips, 26, on Monday (4 July) – with the England international putting pen to paper on a six-year deal at the Etihad Stadium.
Phillips took to his Twitter account later that day to post a heartfelt goodbye to everyone at Elland Road – as well as former boss Marcelo Bielsa, who played a vital role in his development.
Football Insider revealed last month (25 June) that Leeds United will recieve a basic fee of £42million for their hometown hero, rising to £45million after add-ons.
Whelan insisted Jesse Marsch’s side must now spend that windfall wisely in order to replace Phillips – with USA midfielder Tyler Adams already signing.
He told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury: “He’s got nothing but respect for Leeds United.
“He‘s a big fan of the club and a homegrown boy – and I think that is the way these exits should be handled.
“Kalvin has been a great servant and a big part of the club’s history with the promotion and progressed really rapidly under Marcelo Bielsa.
“It was inevitable that someone was going to leave to free up some funds, but he leaves with the respect of everyone at the football club.
“I think everyone probably wishes him the best.
“Now we just need to make sure to put this money to good use and fill the gap he has left behind.”
In other news, Football Insider updates as Leeds United set sights on surprise move for ex-Championship boss.