Ferdinand praises Leeds United ‘quarterback’ Kalvin Phillips
Rio Ferdinand has highlighted the importance of Leeds United ‘quarterback’ Kalvin Phillips following his return for the club.
The 25-year old made his comeback for the Whites against West Ham on Monday after missing four Premier League fixtures through an ankle injury.
He returned to the starting line-up against the Hammers and played the duration, and was in midfield through the 90 minutes in the 0-0 draw with Chelsea.
Talking on BT Sport prior to kick-off between Chelsea and Leeds, Ferdinand shone a light on how important Phillips is to the way Marcelo Bielsa wants his side to play.
On Jake Humphrey mentioning Phillips’ importance, Ferdinand responded: “Especially with the ball. I think with the ball he’s the feeder, he’s the quarterback, he sits there and feeds things.
“He’s got into the England fold as well, and when he doesn’t play in this team you see that little bit of control that they have sometimes is a bit missing when he’s not there.
“He’s someone who’s very comfortable and easy in possession and Bielsa puts a lot through him.”
An understatement
We completely agree with what Ferdinand had to say about Phillips prior to the Chelsea game because he really has become such an important player under Bielsa, both during the current season and in our Championship promotion campaign.
Phillips has undeniably been an influential player for Leeds this season, with the Whites having won just two of the eight games that he has been absent from.
The 25-year old has been an anchor for Bielsa’s men and, especially when we’re in possession, his composure and energy have been crucial in helping us build from the back. Leeds built through him in midfield, and we don’t have a player who can substitute in and do that job to the same standard.
Phillips’ injury was a little bit concerning and we hope that he can maintain some degree of fitness going forward, especially considering our form hasn’t been as impressive over the past few weeks as it was earlier in the season.
Bielsa and the players will want a strong finish to the season, and if Phillips remains fit he’ll play a major role in ensuring that.
In other Leeds United news, Rodrigo believes that a combination of COVID-19 and injuries have prevented him from reaching his potential at Elland Road.