Phillips fears Embleton may quit Sunderland to re-join Blackpool amid confirmed news
Sunderland will be “fighting tooth and nail” to keep Elliot Embleton at the club this summer, according to Kevin Phillips.
The Stadium of Light legend, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 22-year-old could be a real asset to the Black Cats next season in their push for promotion.
Embleton spent the second half of the 2020-21 campaign on loan at Blackpool and impressed as they achieved promotion via the play-offs.
The winger was confirmed on Sunderland’s retained list last month which would suggest that he is part of Lee Johnson’s plans.
However, Phillips is adamant Blackpool will be interested in re-signing Embleton and fears a move to the Championship will prove too tempting.
“I would be desperate to keep hold of him,” he told Football Insider‘s Dylan Childs.
“I watched him a few times last season and I think he is good player and he is certainly someone who can play in League One.
“It raised a few eyebrows when he went to Blackpool and he did very well there.
“I expect the club to be fighting tooth and nail not to let him go.
“He is a good, young player who has done exceptionally well to help Blackpool get promoted. I think he would have a lot to offer next season. Keep him at the club and let him help the club get promoted.
“The other question is, does Embleton want to stay? I am sure Blackpool will be interested in signing him and he might be tempted to go and play in the Championship. I really hope they keep him though.”
In other news, Kevin Phillips thrilled by ‘great news’ he’s heard from Sunderland director.