Beckford claims he is Bamford’s ‘biggest fan’
Former Leeds United forward Jermaine Beckford has showered praise on Kalvin Phillips, describing himself as the midfielder’s “biggest fan”.
The 25-year old has been vital for the Whites this season, with the club only picking up two wins in the eight games that he has missed in the Premier League [Transfermarkt].
Phillips’ performances for Leeds saw him receive his first call-up to the England national team last summer, while his recent showings saw him included in Gareth Southgate’s most recent squad.
Speaking as a pundit on Sky Sports’ [19:30, 19/03/21] preview show ahead of Leeds’ clash against Fulham on Friday, Beckford was full of praise for star man Phillips.
Beckford sad: “Kalvin Phillips is one of those players that knits everything together in the middle of the field.
“He helps the defensive side of things when the game breaks down, and he also gives the attacking players, the wide players, the freedom to express themselves and go forward with no restrictions.
“He’s vitally important. He always finds himself in the right place at the right time. He doesn’t get pulled out of position very easily either, and his first thought is always ‘how can I get back and get the ball safely, and without giving away a free kick, and once I do that can I pop it off to somebody whose going to create some sort of chances’.”
Beckford also praised how much Phillips clearly cares about Leeds United, having joined the club as a 14-year old back in 2010.
Beckford continued: “I’m his biggest, biggest fan, aside from his mum. He’s a lovely person off the field as well, and you can see what he means to Leeds and what Leeds means to him by his performances.
“He gives everything he has for the club.”
Pure Leeds
Phillips’ development over the previous few seasons have made him a player who is difficult not to enjoy watching.
He just ties everything together so nicely, and whenever he’s playing Leeds just appear so much more assured of themselves, particularly when in possession.
Phillips’ connection must also be viewed as a major positive, with the club almost certain to receive enquiries over his long-term future in the summer – enquiries that the club simply must shut down.
It remains to be seen how much game time Phillips can expect if he is ultimately included in Gareth Southgate’s squad for the Euros this summer, but England will be taking a more than capable holding midfielder who can offer something different to Jordan Henderson and Eric Dier.
Should he be picked it will prove beyond any doubt that Leeds are a club that understand how to develop and progress talent, and that can only serve the club well in the future.
In other Leeds United news, club make move for 17y/o Celtic starlet.