Paul Merson has stated ‘there aren’t too many leaders in football’ like Leeds United’s Kalvin Phillips.
The Sky pundit added by saying that Phillips ‘sets by example’ for Leeds, as he told Sky Sports News (09/04/22 at 2:55 pm).
On Saturday, Jesse Marsch guided his team to a much-needed three points as they breezed past Watford in the Premier League.
It was an easy afternoon’s work for the Whites because it also allowed them to bring Phillips off the bench to boost his fitness after a long lay-off.
Merson spoke about Leeds needing Phillips to stay fit for the final few weeks of the campaign, as they edge closer to safety.
“He’s a leader,” said Merson. “There aren’t too many leaders about in football anymore. I look at him as a bit of a leader.
“He sets by example for that team and Phillips needs to be fit for the last five or six games.”
To think the last time Phillips started a game for Leeds, a certain Marcelo Bielsa was still in the dugout.
It was a ruthless and emotional call by the club to sack him from the job, but it’s one that is proving to be correct.
Bielsa had to deal with a stupid amount of injuries and the fact that they played a number of the top sides during their struggles also didn’t help matters.
But, when their survival is confirmed for another season, then someone like Bielsa should be praised for playing a huge part in their development.
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