Kalvin Phillips shares how Bielsa has been changing his position in training

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Leeds United midfielder Kalvin Phillips could be playing in defence under Marcelo Bielsa.

Leeds United midfielder Kalvin Phillips has told Leeds Live that he has been training to play as a defender under new manager Marcelo Bielsa.

The Whites started the Bielsa era with a pre-season friendly against Forest Green Rovers on Tuesday night, and they came away with a 2-1 win as they continue their preparations.

Kemar Roofe and Luke Ayling scored the goals for Leeds as they secured a victory, and it was the first chance for Leeds fans to see their team under Bielsa.

The maverick tactician had been expected to use a 3-3-1-3 system, but it seemed to be more of a 4-1-4-1, with Samu Saiz pushing up to support the attack, whilst Kalvin Phillips virtually sitting on top of the back four.

Midfielder Phillips got forward to good effect last season, recording seven goals and three assists in the Championship as the 22-year-old enjoyed a strong campaign – yet he may be in line for a more defensive role under Bielsa.

Phillips protected the back four and slotted in between the centre halves to use the ball, and he has admitted that he may actually be set to play even deeper yet.

Phillips has told Leeds Live that he has trained as a centre back under Bielsa, and could play in a back three if needed, as the Argentinian has often had a history for converting midfielders and full backs to play at centre back.

“I’m not too sure to be honest,” said Phillips when asked about his position under Bielsa. “Obviously I’ve been playing as the deepest midfielder and I’ve been playing in training as a third centre-half as well so I think he’s just trying to work out where my best position is. I believe I can play anywhere in the midfield and I’m just happy to be playing and hopefully I can get the chance to do that throughout the season.”

“Yeah, obviously I’m always up for that. As long as I’m playing games I’m not really fussed where I play. Like I said, I can play anywhere in midfield, I can play centre-half so obviously it’s a good thing to have when you can be a utility player as well,” he added.