Kalvin Phillips will come into starting contention for Leeds United next weekend against Watford in the Premier League.
Leeds have welcomed Phillips back into the squad either side of the March international break, with the midfielder getting his first minutes since December off the bench in Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Southampton.
Jesse Marsch was pleased with his return and now appears likely to be able to call on the England international from the off next weekend as Leeds head to Watford.
As per Phil Hay, who reporting in the aftermath of Leeds’ 1-1 draw with Southampton, Marsch has revealed how Phillips will come into consideration for a starting berth after a cameo from the bench.
The 26-year-old hasn’t started a fixture since December’s 2-2 draw with Brentford, when the midfielder injured his hamstring in the second-half – an injury that’s kept him sidelined for four months.
Leeds’ trip to Watford on Saturday is shaping up into a hugely important fixture as Marsch aims to keep the Whites in the Premier League.
Currently, Leeds sit 16th in the table and eight points clear of Watford, who are 18th and trying to claw their way back into the mix to survive.
Saturday is Leeds’ final fixture this season against a side sitting below them in the Premier League table.
Given the shape of the relegation battle and what a win could do for Leeds at Watford, it’s absolutely vital Marsch has his best available side out on the pitch from the start.
That includes Phillips and, simply, there should be no doubt that he comes back into the starting line-up if he’s fit enough for the matchday squad.
Phillips makes a huge difference to Leeds’ stability, shielding the defence out of possession and offering them a steady option in possession.
If Leeds are to give themselves the best possible chance of beating Watford, Phillips has to start.
Should Phillips start v Watford?
Yes
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