Phillips has perhaps been one of the stand-out Leeds performers under Marcelo Bielsa.
Leeds United icon Noel Whelan has told Sporting Life’s Championship podcast that Kalvin Phillips is “absolutely integral” to Marcelo Bielsa’s style of play this season, as the Whites continue to shine.
The 22-year-old has adopted the anchor role of Leeds’ midfield under the former Argentina, Lazio and Athletic Bilbao manager, which sees him link the defence and midfield and fill in between the centre-backs at times.
Playing in a similar role that Andrea Pirlo coined at Juventus, Italy and then later on at New York City, Phillips has changed his role from being an attacking playmaker to a defensive anchor. It has certainly suited him.
Whelan, who is a huge favourite among Elland Road fans due to his work with BBC Radio Leeds, believes Phillips is crucial to Bielsa’s system and has been hugely impressed with the Thorp Arch product.
“Kalvin Phillips is absolutely integral,” Whelan said. “He’s that one that sits between the two centre-halves, to give them that strength and allows the wing-backs to get high – Luke Ayling and Barry Douglas.
“Without Phillips doing that sitting role, and that disciplined role, it would not allow Leeds to play. There’s a lot of trust in this Leeds side.”
Phillips has played every single minute of Leeds’ campaign so far, even featuring for 90 minutes in the Carabao Cup against Bolton Wanderers last week.
The midfielder is expected to start against Swansea City on Tuesday night in a bid to continue the Whites’ 100 per cent record with a win at the Liberty Stadium.
On a side note for 5ft 8in ace Phillips, the midfielder will make his 100th league and cup appearance for the Whites if given the chance to shine from the off. In that time, he has scored nine goals and created six efforts.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
