Leeds ace opens up on comparisons to Billy Bremner, claims it helps when Whites struggle
Leeds United midfielder Kalvin Phillips has opened up on comparisons to Whites’ legend Billy Bremner.
Phillips didn’t delve too deep into the comparison but admitted that there any many areas where he can relate to the Whites legend.
The 24-year-old admitted that he often thinks about Bremner and tries to emulate his game and playing style on the Scottish icon who has a statue outside Elland Road.
Phillips spoke about the comparison on Friday and even made reference to the famous song that fans sing about Bremner.
“Billy Bremner was a big part of the team that did so well and I know I’m a big part of this team and so I relate on that. But position wise I also relate to him and he used to go out, they’d sing a song about him playing until he’s black and blue,” he told the Mirror.
“I always think of that when I think I’m struggling because if Billy Bremner can get through it then why can’t I? If you want to be remembered for a long time then you have to do these sort of things. When you look back, he was a tough little player and I try to be like that as well.”
Marcelo Bielsa has transformed Phillips from an average midfielder to one of the best defensive players in the Championship, if not the country in the past two years.
The 24-year-old is being eyed up for an international call-up by Gareth Southgate and it is clear to see why. Phillips has made 2.8 tackles per game this season according to WhoScored, more than Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson.
Phillips has always had a big tackle in his locker, but Bielsa has brought some class and composure into his game and it has transformed him for the better.
In other Leeds United news, BBC pundit has claimed that Huddersfield cold exploit Achilles heel of Whites on Saturday