Leeds United boss Marcelo Bielsa has compared Liverpool-linked Kalvin Phillips to Italy legend Andrea Pirlo and Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone.
The Daily Star revealed a few weeks ago that Jurgen Klopp’s men are interested in the 25-year-old midfielder. Manchester United are also reportedly keen, and it is no surprise that he’s a wanted man.
Phillips has been brilliant for Leeds since the start of last season. He was among the best midfielders in the country last term and his performances deservedly earned him a spot in England’s Euros squad.
Bielsa is a big fan of Phillips and the Leeds United boss has compared him to two of his former players.
Bielsa compares Kalvin Phillips to Pirlo and Simeone
Asked about Phillips being called the ‘Yorkshire Pirlo’, the Argentine told Sky Sports on Sunday: “Yes, they have things in common.
“The area in which they play, for a start, and their understanding of the game. Like Pirlo, Phillips is a player who knows how to organise the possession play.”
Bielsa further compared him to Simeone: “They are both combative players, players who are comfortable when there are disputes or there is friction on the pitch.
MORE LIVERPOOL STORIES
“Simeone, of course, also had very good passing ability.”
High praise
Pirlo is among the greatest midfielders to ever grace the game, while Simeone was an excellent player too. Being compared to the two of them is a huge compliment to Phillips, who still have a long way to go in his career.
Leeds would undoubtedly love to keep hold of Phillips until the end of his career, but that’s unlikely to happen. With clubs like Liverpool keen, a move away from Elland Road will happen sooner or later, and nobody can say he doesn’t deserve it.
It will be interesting to see what happens with Phillips in the summer. Liverpool would be a fantastic club for him, but whether the Reds will splash big money to sign him is anyone’s guess.
