Phillips ready for the ‘biggest game of season’

LEEDS United star Kalvin Phillips has demanded his team-mates make sure they are on top form to face United today.

Phillips’ side make the short trip across the Pennines for their first Premier League fixture against United in almost 17 years and the midfielder is under no illusions over how big the game is. Having grown up in the city and come through Leeds’ academy, the 25-year-old has strong memories of previous meetings between the two sides and is well aware of how feisty the games can be.

It means he has been keen to emphasise to his team-mates how important the match is.

Phillips revealed he made sure his team-mates switched their focus to this afternoon’s game immediately after their midweek win over Newcastle United.

With Leeds’ energetic style of play under Marcelo Bielsa grabbing plenty of attention since their return to the Premier League, Phillips said: “I’ve always understood how big it was. We’ve not been in the top flight for some time.

“I grew up when Leeds were in the top flight and then we faded away and didn’t play them as much, but still, to this day, I can remember my family members, just how hostile it was, and with tackles flying in.

“It’s one game this year I’m looking forward to because I know what it means to everyone.

“I’ve been walking around the changing room after the Newcastle game, telling everyone to make sure they’re ready and doing everything they can to recover because this is the biggest game of the season.”