Phillips has been a vital cog in Marcelo Bielsa’s new Leeds system.
Dom Matteo has applauded the character of Leeds United midfielder Kalvin Phillips when talking to Proper Sport, after the academy product bounced back from being substituted in the first half against Swansea City.
Marcelo Bielsa decided to remove 22-year-old Phillips in just the 28th minute of the 2-2 draw against Swansea last week, after he had picked up a yellow card while marking the impressive Bersant Celina.
Bielsa explained after the match that he felt Phillips was at risk of being sent off and decided to remove him, before starting him against Norwich City on Saturday where the midfielder starred as Leeds won 3-0.
Former Leeds defender Matteo, famed for scoring in the Champions League against AC Milan at the San Siro, applauded Phillips for showing plenty of character to bounce back and impress after being substituted early at Swansea.
“That was going to go one way or the other,” Matteo said. “The manager made a big call [in subbing Phillips off against Swansea]. I’ve seen that happen, it is tough to see. I’ve seen player brought on and subbed off in the same game.
“It can affect you. But fairplay to him, he’s a young player and sometimes his temperament has come under the kosh with fans and staff, but I think he showed great character.”
Phillips has become a vital part of Bielsa’s well-oiled system since taking over at Elland Road, playing in between the defence and midfield and dictating the tempo of play.
It is quite the change for Phillips from last year, when he played closer to the attack. But the holding midfield role seems to be benefiting the Leeds ace, in a 4-1-4-1 system that is working well.
Despite losing 2-0 to Preston in the Carabao Cup, Leeds will be looking to remain unbeaten in the Championship as they host joint leaders Middlesbrough on Friday night in front of the television cameras.
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