Leeds United's Kalvin Phillips Is 'One Of The Best Midfielders In The World'

Leeds United skipper Liam Cooper has hailed teammate Kalvin Phillips as "one of the best midfielders in the world".

The 25-year-old followed up an impressive first season in the Premier League with a stellar Euro 2020 campaign as England reached the final.

Phillips started all seven of England's games and proved to be a crucial cog in Gareth Southgate's side alongside West Ham's Declan Rice.

He displayed incredible fitness over the tournament, covering a ridiculous 82.99km - with only Italy's Jorginho beating him.

Image: PA

But 'the Yorkshire Pirlo' was also handy with the ball throughout - the best example being his superb assist for Raheem Sterling in England's opening win over Croatia.

Phillips has received more praise than ever and Leeds captain Cooper, who has seen his meteoric rise, believes he's deserving of the "world-class" tag.

"He announced himself in that first game against Croatia (at Euro 2020) and I've told him that his life has changed forever now," Cooper told Sky Sports News.

"He knows that though, he's not a stupid lad and lives his life the right way anyway.

"I've seen his journey from a young lad to where he is now and it's been a pleasure to see - and he belongs there.

"He works so hard here (at Leeds), all the boys and the people of Leeds think the world of him and he deserves everything that comes his ways.

"I've seen how hard he works every single day, I see how much he takes on and turns it into his game.

"For me, he is one of the best midfielders in the world right now."

Image: PA

Phillips' stock has risen massively following the Euros. Former Manchester United striker Dimitar Berbatov called for the Red Devils to sign him, while Arsenal legend Perry Groves reckons he's a perfect for Liverpool.

Speaking to talkSPORT, he said: "Kalvin Phillips fits Liverpool perfectly.

"The energy they play with, the closing down, his athleticism, his passing range.

"What would he cost? £100 million."

Although recent displays will have caught the eye of many clubs, Phillips has a contract until 2024 and "has no desire to move whatsoever" according to his agent Kevin Sharp.

Topics: Kalvin Phillips, Football, Euro 2020, Premier League, England, Leeds United

Josh Lawless

Josh is a sports journalist who specialises in football and wrestling. He has been published by Curzon Ashton FC, Late Tackle, Manchester City FC, The Mirror, Read Man City and Manchester Evening News. He provides coverage of professional wrestling and has interviewed some of the biggest names in the field - including the first UK interview with The Hardy Boyz after their return to WWE. He has never sported a pair of Lonsdale Slip-ons, contrary to reports.

@https://twitter.com/JoshLawless_