Liverpool should consider targeting Kalvin Phillips as a potential replacement for Jordan Henderson.
That’s according to Garth Crooks, who has been singing the praises of the Leeds United midfielder following his performance the Whites 1-0 win away to Everton over the weekend.
With Leeds having suffered back to back 4-1 defeats to Leicester and Crystal Palace during Phillips’ injury enforced absence prior to the November international break, the England international’s return to full fitness has provided a huge boost for Marcelo Bielsa’s side.
That was particularly evident on Saturday evening, as Phillips once again ran the show from the centre of midfield, to help the Whites end a three-game winless run and claim all three points at Goodison Park.
Now it seems as though that showing from Phillips has clearly impressed Crooks, who has named the 25-year-old in his team of the week for BBC Sport, thanks to his performance against the Toffees.
Writing in his team of the week column about what he saw from Phillips on Merseyside, Crooks said: “Leeds missed Kalvin Phillips against Leicester and Crystal Palace, but not against Everton. The England international is making a name for himself, and was far too sharp for the Toffees.
This kid reminds me of a young Bryan Robson, when the former Manchester United and England captain played for West Brom. Phillips can cover the ground, he’s not afraid to stick his foot in, and sees the pass.”
Indeed, it seems Crooks believes that Liverpool ought to be looking at Phillips as a potential replacement for their current captain Henderson, with the former Stoke and Tottenham striker adding: “He doesn’t immediately grab your attention but given time you begin to realise the enormous contribution he’s making to the game.
“I think he’s the perfect replacement for Jordan Henderson and I don’t mean just for England.”
Ctooks’ team of the week selections can often raise a few eyebrows but he looks to have been spot on with Phillips here.
The midfielder was in absolutely dominant form at Goodison Park on Saturday, and once again showed why he is so important to this team.
As for the suggestion of him being a replacement for Henderson, you can understand where Crooks is coming from, when you look at the influence and sense of leadership he provides from the centre of the park on such a consistent basis.
With that in mind however, Leeds are obviously not going to want to let him go quickly or easily, and with three-and-a-half years remaining on his current contract, Liverpool will surely have to spend big if they are to bring him to Anfield anytime soon.