‘Outstanding’ – Sky Sports pundit claims Leeds talent is ‘one of the best around’
Clinton Morrison has heaped praise on Leeds United midfielder Kalvin Phillips for his contribution to the Whites’ promotion to the Premier League this season.
The 24-year-old has been a mainstay of Marcelo Bielsa’s side this term, but missed out on Sunday’s win over Derby County at Pride Park because of injury.
And even though he is currently sidelined, Sky Sports pundit Morrison has named the academy product as a key member of the Elland Road dressing room – alongside Ben White, Liam Cooper, and Stuart Dallas.
Speaking on EFL on Quest (Sunday July 19th, 10am), he said: “Every player has been superb and contributed, but I think White has been excellent alongside Cooper.
“Cooper supports that team he knows what it feels like to get Leeds back into the Premier League after 16 years.
“Kalvin Phillips, I think he’s been outstanding. Coming through the academy, he was an attacking midfielder, Bielsa turned him into a defensive midfielder. He’s one of the best around. I think he’ll be a joy to watch in the Premier League.
“Obviously I’m going to give a special mention to Stuart Dallas too. You can play Stuart Dallas anywhere and he always performs. He’s always a seven out of 10, or even more.”
Morrison is spot on here – Phillips is quite simply one of the best around.
According to Whoscored, Phillips is the highest-rated defensive midfielder in the Championship this season, and the 15th highest-rated player in the division overall, with an average match rating of 7.23.
His performances have even been good enough to attract the attention of England manager Gareth Southgate, with the national boss naming the local lad and Ben White as two players he has been keeping tabs on ahead of choosing his squad for next summer’s European Championships.
There’s absolutely no doubt in our mind that Phillips is Premier League quality player, and we’re just delighted that he’s going to get to prove his mettle while playing for his beloved hometown club next season.
In other Leeds United news, Phil Hay: Leeds agree £10m deal for attacker joining on loan for 20/21 season.