The Leeds United star idolised the Derby County manager during his playing days.
Leeds United midfielder Kalvin Phillips has revealed to The Yorkshire Evening Post that Frank Lampard was one of his inspirations growing up.
Phillips is enjoying an exceptional season at Leeds under Marcelo Bielsa.
The 23-year-old midfielder is one of the most exciting prospects to come out of the Whites’ academy in recent years.
England boasted a number of homegrown midfield talents who conquered Europe and therefore players like Phillips had plenty of people to look up to during his youth.
And he concedes that Lampard – the Derby County manager involved in the Spygate spat with Bielsa earlier this season – was among his role models.
He told The Yorkshire Evening Post: “When I was growing up I looked at players like Gerrard, Scholes and Lampard. Although I shouldn’t really say Lampard!”
Lampard must be a fan of the Leeds star too.
Phillips missed the 2-0 win over Derby in January, in the wake of spying allegations, but he was phenomenal in the victory at Pride Park back in August and no doubt the Chelsea legend noticed his performance.
As things stand, Leeds will be playing Derby in the semi-final of the playoffs.
The Whites will cement third place if they avoid defeat away at relegated Ipswich Town on the final day, while Lampard’s side will seal sixth if they win at home to West Brom.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
