Jordan Henderson has revealed that Adam Lallana tells him ‘regularly’ about how he predicted the rise of Nat Phillips at Liverpool.
In his programme notes ahead of tonight’s clash with Southampton, Henderson paid tribute to the 24-year-old defender’s application.
Liverpool’s official website quotes him as saying: “Adam Lallana is one of Nat’s biggest fans and he tells me regularly how he predicted Nat would do exactly what he’s gone on to do when his chance came.
“Adz saw a player with big talent, who understood the importance of doing all the right things as often as possible. Again, good habits and top attitude, essential for young players who want to progress.”
Putting Mohamed Salah’s 29-goal season aside, you could argue that Phillips has been Liverpool’s Player of the Season this term.
The Bolton-born colossus has stepped up amid an injury crisis for Jürgen Klopp’s men, and really hasn’t looked out of place at all.
Phillips impressed in both legs against Real Madrid despite the defeat.
In particular, his passing range was exquisite – we had no idea he was that good on the ball!
In the previous round against RB Leipzig, he was even named Man of the Match on what was his Champions League debut.
As a result of his fine efforts, Phillips won Liverpool’s Player of the Month award for March.
If you’d have told a Liverpool fan that before the start of the season, they’d surely have laughed in your face.
That is by no means a criticism of Phillips.
It’s more the fact that Klopp had centre-backs such as Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez and Joel Matip, so few people would’ve thought that Liverpool’s No.47 would get this much game time.
It’s safe to say he’s grabbed his chance with both hands.
Whatever happens after the aforementioned trio return to action, Phillips has done himself proud.
If he wanted to, he’d surely be able to secure a move to a decent Premier League club after his heroics for the champions this season.
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