Former Leeds United midfielder Kalvin Phillips completed a shock move to Sheffield United in January. He was part of a host of signings Chris Wilder pushed for to save the club’s season.
The Blades boss managed to recruit a lot of players, with a few of them being former Leeds men. Patrick Bamford joined as a free agent before January, and Leo Hjelde, Joe Rothwell and Kalvin Phillips were the other additions.
Many saw it as a fresh start for the 30-year old, who had bounced around multiple clubs since moving from Elland Road.
Phillips only managed to play three games for Sheffield United, getting sent off in his third game for the Blades. After that, he picked up an injury which ruled him out for the season.
Chris Wilder eyes shock move for Kalvin Phillips
He was not able to play for Chris Wilder, who managed to guide the Blades to 13th place after a horrible start to the season.
But despite Kalvin Phillips having played just 171 minutes of football, Wilder has expressed interest in bringing him back. According to The Star, club sources have suggested that the former Leeds man may make a shock return this summer.
The club released Jairo Riedewald, and it is believed that Phillips will fill that role going into next season. Wilder’s comments last month on the Manchester City star also hint at a possible move.
“It was a fabulous move that Steve Bettis put together, with Man City, from our point of view. It’s nowhere near what people think it is. Obviously that’s their lack of knowledge on the situation.
“We brought a really good pro in. Obviously, he was unfortunately unlucky with his injury. He’s not played as much as he wanted to play but he’s been in around the place. I’ve spoken to him and I just basically said to him, as basic as this: ‘If we are an option, we’d love to be an option. And one that is there for you. Your agent and your parent club.’
“He certainly ticks the boxes, in terms of personality and characteristics. The character that we’re after on the pitch. As well as off of it. So there’s no pressure.
“I think we’re well stocked next year in the middle of the park. We’ve got some good options in there. But with Kalvin, if there’s an opportunity, I’m sure we’ll try and explore that one.”
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Sheffield United really need to assess this move
Kalvin Phillips was a wonderful player back when he was fit and available to play games. His performances in a Leeds shirt proved to the whole world that he was quality.
The midfielder was transformed by Bielsa into a deep playmaker, and played so well to get himself into the England set up.
But this version of Phillips is a risk that some clubs should avoid. Maybe Chris Wilder has assurances from the player and the club’s medical staff to manage him next season.
Regardless, this move will be a baffling one to the Sheffield United supporters.
