Phillips cites Maja after update on Swansea completing Stewart signing from Sunderland
Kevin Phillips has claimed Ross Stewart would have to force his way out of Sunderland if he wants to join Swansea City.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the Stadium of Light legend said there is “no way” the Black Cats would let the 25-year-old leave this month.
Stewart has been Sunderland’s standout player this season and is League One’s top scorer with 18 goals in 27 appearances.
According to the Daily Record (14 January), Swansea are one of a number of clubs considering a move for the Scottish striker.
However, as quoted by the Chronicle (15 January), Lee Johnson is “confident” the Wearside club will retain their best players in January.
When asked by Football Insider‘s Dylan Childs for his assessment of Stewart’s future, Phillips said:
“Naturally, when you do well and score the goals that he’s scored clubs will be interested. He’s shown a bit of everything since joining Sunderland.
“I think he’ll only get better and better. The higher he goes the better players he will be playing with. It would only enhance his game.
“Sunderland would never let him go though, no way. The only way he would go is if he does a Josh Maja and forces his way out. It would require Ross Stewart to say he wants to leave.
“It looks like he’s enjoying his life at Sunderland though. I like to think he’s got good people around him.
“Would you leave Sunderland to go to Swansea? I personally wouldn’t. Stick where you are and get this team promoted.”
In other news, Phillips has claimed Sunderland could complete a ‘huge’ signing from the Championship after update last week.