Leeds United have been flying under the guidance of Marcelo Bielsa this season and one of the stand-out improvements has been the nurturing of previously under-performing players into key assets.
The entire squad has increased significantly under Bielsa’s leadership but few have caught the eye as much as Kalvin Phillips, who has not missed a single Championship match so far this season and is a key player for the Argentine boss.
Still just 23, Phillips stands as evidence of the strength of Leeds’ academy and presents the perfect path for the likes of Tyler Roberts and Jack Clarke to follow in the coming years after he established himself as a fan favourite.
Celebrating his birthday this week, one fan on Twitter took the opportunity to share some intriguing statistics about Phillips’ performances this season and it attracted a wealth of responses from other supporters.
We have gathered some of their comments below.
Can you remember when people wanted him sold along with Cooper and Roofe … improved so much since then days #lufc
— Kershaw ⚽️ (@Kershaw444) December 2, 2018
At this point surely if not player of the season then in contention for player of the season alongside Pablo , Roofe and capitano Copper.M.O.T
— Ghanabeleeds (@Peterbouchedid1) December 3, 2018
It’s no wonder that he keeps winning the Sky Man Of The Match. He has certainly shut his critics up this season.
— Jane Beer (@BeerJane58) December 2, 2018
The best is yet to come
— Paul Kent (@kenty227) December 2, 2018
Where have his haters gone?
— Andy t (@Browncockle) December 3, 2018
Love how he’s come on this season, a lot of doubters (including myself) not thinking he was good enough last season, quality season so far for him
— Dibble (@MattDibble1996) December 2, 2018
Big decision to keep Phillips and get rid of Vieira as thought Vieira was the one who will shine. What a point that boy @Kalvinphillips is proving. Reminds me a bit of our Olivier Dacourt.
— James Naylor (@JamesNaylor1987) December 3, 2018
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‘Huge weekend in the season’: Many Leeds fans react to favourable results