Martin Keown has claimed that Leeds United midfielder Kalvin Phillips’ passing is underrated in the Daily Mail.
Phillips’ distribution is certainly highly regarded at Elland Road by supporters who have watched him regularly.
However, those outside of Leeds may consider Phillips to be more of a defensive enforcer, than a deep-lying playmaker.
While Phillips does have a strong defensive skill-set, the label of him being simply a midfield anchor may be unjust.
And Keown thinks that Phillips needs to believe that he is more than capable of impressing at international level.
“When Southgate first called up Phillips last August, he’d not yet kicked a ball in the Premier League. England’s manager kept a close eye on him in the Championship. Phillips doesn’t get nearly enough credit for his passing and is incredibly athletic,” Keown said.
“He’s been instrumental in the midfield of an all-action Leeds side. He’s got an excellent defensive compass and knows where to provide cover. The 25-year-old just needs to believe he belongs at this level.”
Important role to play
Phillips may well have an important role to play with England this summer, with fitness concerns over Jordan Henderson.
If Henderson doesn’t start then there is a spot in midfield up for grabs.
Phillips will be in contention with Jude Bellingham to start for England against Croatia on Sunday, in the Three Lions’ opening game.
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