In a recent interview with Give Me Sport, A View From The Bullens host Ben Winstanley urged Everton to sign Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips on loan. Winstanley said,
“Yes, I think if we get him on loan it will be a fantastic signing. I know there was a lot of murmurs in the summer. I think the thing with Phillips for me is he is an out-and-out number six. He is your Gareth Barry-esque player who will sit in front of the back four and guard that back four. He likes the ball, he likes to play football. I think it’d be an excellent signing and I think it takes the pressure off the likes of Onana, Garner, Gueye, because even though Onana can play in a deeper role, I feel like he’s so leggy, so physical, so powerful, that he could be your box-to-box midfielder and he’s got the pace to get back as well to obviously contribute with the defending.”
Phillips’ Lackluster Campaign At The Etihad Stadium
Phillips has struggled to nail down a regular spot in Pep Guardiola’s first XI during this campaign. The former Leeds United talent has only made five appearances for Man City this season in multiple competitions.
The 27-year-old has seen all of his game time come as a substitute which explains why he is only averaging 0.7 tackles, 0.3 interceptions and 0.7 clearances per game in Premier League football. He has been accurate when interchanging possession with his teammates after completing 90% of his attempted passes in the English top tier (stats via whoscored).
Should Everton Head Coach Sean Dyche Move In For Phillips?
Phillips is a tough-tackling midfielder who can time his challenges well to secure possession back for his team inside his half. He doesn’t mind clearing the danger when the opposition are on the front foot.
However, the lack of game time has seen his confidence take a hit at Man City. Hence, the player would welcome a move to a club like Everton where he would be guaranteed a regular starting spot.
Phillips would add more bite and steel to Sean Dyche‘s midfield. He might even help the Merseyside club steer clear of the Premier League‘s relegation zone this season. Therefore, Dyche should think about moving in for him on a loan deal this winter.
