‘So much more’: Don Hutchison says Leeds star gets pigeonholed as similar to £290k-a-week Chelsea man

Tue 28 September 2021 12:15, UK

that Leeds and England ace Kalvin Phillips gets “pigeonholed” as similar to Chelsea ace N’Golo Kante.

Phillips, 25, was unlucky to be on the losing side during Saturday’s 2-1 defeat to West Ham. Michail Antonio scored an injury-time winner.

Leeds were excellent in the first 45 but West Ham came roaring back in the second half. A Junior Firpo own goal cancelled out Raphinha’s opener.

Antonio got the winner, as Phillips and Declan Rice did battle – the first time since the duo combined for England, reaching the Euro 2020 final.

Hutchison gave his verdict on Monday, praising both Rice and Phillips. He then compared Phillips to £290k-a-week () Chelsea ace Kante.

“There were two players on that pitch, that are going right to the very top and have the best careers ever. Rice and Phillips,”

“I watched him against Fulham, the way he plays the game, the pictures he sees, he has time on the ball, he’s got a ridiculous passing range.

“Short, no-look – a golfing analogy, a two-iron spray, incredible. Phillips gets pigeonholed as a Kante breaker-upper, he’s far more than that.”

Hutchison on Phillips and Chelsea ace Kante: Can Leeds keep him?

Recent reports suggest that Manchester United are said to be taking a look at Phillips – though given the rivalry, Phillips will hardly be tempted.

Leeds born and bred, the homegrown product bleeds Leeds. But the fact remains, can Leeds keep up with Phillips and his ambitions?

Having become a regular in the England side, and reaching the Euro 2020 final – Phillips will want to be playing European football soon.

The England ace almost joined Aston Villa when Leeds lost in the 2019 Championship play-offs. He remained loyal – though the ambitious is there.

As long as Leeds continue to grow, Phillips will stay. But if Leeds begin to stutter and remain a bottom-half side, then his head could get turned.