Clinton Morrison has claimed that Leeds United will be in the bottom six next season ‘most definitely’ if they lose Kalvin Phillips and Raphinha in the summer transfer market, as he told BBC Radio 5 Live Sport.
The former striker thinks ‘Leeds fans will be disappointed’ by those claims and added that they are ‘big and crucial’ players for the Yorkshire club.
It’s going to be a long summer for Leeds because there has been a lot of transfer talk around Phillips and Raphinha’s future, with several Premier League clubs keen.
After surviving relegation last season by the skin of their teeth, the last thing needed is for the club’s best players to head for the exit door.
Well, that’s exactly what could happen, as Morrison made it clear that it will be a ‘real struggle’ if those nightmares become reality.
“I know they had a lot of injuries last season, there were big injuries to the likes of Phillips, Cooper and Bamford,” said Morrison. “And they were key players for them. But if you lose someone of Phillips’ ability in midfield, he is the best holding midfielder at Leeds. And Raphinha, then I think they will struggle next season. And then they have to keep Patrick Bamford fit.
“You can tell me about the three players they brought in and we don’t really know much about them. But they aren’t going to be the same ability as the likes of Kalvin Phillips and Raphinha.
“I do think it will be another struggle next season. All Leeds are worried about is staying in the Premier League next season. These transfers have to happen soon, so they get all the money in, and then they can bring players in. But if they do it right at the end, then it will be a real struggle.
“If them two go, then they will be in the bottom (six) most definitely. Leeds fans will be disappointed I might be saying that. But they are two crucial players and big players for that football club.”
PHILLIPS OVER RAPHINHA?
If the Leeds faithful had a choice, then they would probably prefer to sell Raphinha than Phillips this summer.
The fact that the hard-hitting midfielder is a boyhood fan and he has come through the academy plays a huge part.
But, whilst the club will struggle to replace both, their weakness is defence and with Phillips staying in that midfield, it provides comfort for the rest.
Either way, with three new players already through the door for Jesse Marsch, it’s not who he brings in that might make the headlines.
But who heads for the exit door, especially if both Raphinha and Phillips depart.
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