Dominic Matteo thinks it would be advantageous for Leeds United and the player if Kalvin Phillips were to return this summer.
Following a dismal two years at Manchester City, Phillips has been frequently linked to a summer return to Elland Road. The midfielder, who moved from West Yorkshire to the Premier League champions in 2022, has played little minutes and is unlikely to play regularly at the Etihad.
Phillips, 28, moved on loan to West Ham in January in an attempt to play more regularly. However, he has had a terrible time in London, making so few appearances that he was left off of the England team last month. Assuming Leeds remains a Premier League team come summer, Matteo has encouraged them to grant their former star a temporary reprieve from City, where a permanent departure is expected.
Matteo said Football League World, “I’ve been impressed by Gruev, Kamara, and Rutter this season, but the Premier League is a step up.” “I think these three gifted players can succeed in the Premier League, but having a strong squad is crucial,” the player said.
“Kalvin Phillips was superb for Leeds, he gave everything and it showed in his performances which got him an England call up and becoming a hugely valuable member of the England squad. Since the move to Manchester City, Phillips hasn’t played a lot and this isn’t good for the type of player Phillips is. He needs to be playing regularly and this hasn’t been the case.
“It’s all well being part of Manchester City set up, but Phillips needs game time. The loan to West Ham isn’t going as he would have wished and a move back to Leeds United could be a welcome one, for him to regain his confidence, match fitness and be part of a team where the fans will be on side when he puts in the type of performances he gave in his first spell.”
