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Jurgen Klopp says player who starred for Liverpool in Merseyside derby set to leave
Jurgen Klopp has told his pre-Tottenham press conference – – that defender Nat Phillips is likely to return to Stuttgart, despite starring against Everton in the FA Cup third-round win earlier this month.
With injuries sustained by both Dejan Lovren and Joel Matip, 22-year-old Phillips was recalled from his loan spell at second-tier German side Stuttgart. He had impressed in Germany, clocking up 11 appearances for 2. Bundelsiga outfit.
He returned to Anfield at the start of the month, with his season-long loan cut short. It saw Phillips play in a youthful side that beat Everton 1-0 thanks to Curtis Jones’ stunning effort from the edge of the area. Phillips combined well with Joe Gomez.
Despite his impressive performance in what was his Liverpool debut and just his 12th senior appearance throughout his entire career, Klopp confirmed that the ex-Bolton defender would “probably” return to Stuttgart this month.
“First of all, it’s really great, it’s just nice to have him around again because he’s such an exceptional person,” “He made a lot of interesting experience in the city where I was born; I know the people there and he enjoys it a lot. Probably he will go back but we have to see exactly. But, yes, probably.”
TBR’s view – Game time is the key for Phillips
It is a no-brainer to send Phillips back on loan to Stuttgart. Having played for Stuttgart and Liverpool this season, rules state that he can only play for one of those two teams going forward – meaning a loan back to Stuttgart is his best option.
If he was to remain at Anfield, he would be fifth-choice centre-back. Klopp may even prefer the likes of Jordan Henderson at centre-back, given the Liverpool skipper played there against Monterrey in the Club World Cup. Stuttgart is the right move.
