In a recent interview with Goodison News, former scout Bryan King urged Everton to move in for Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips this summer. King said,
“He (Phillips) isn’t getting any opportunities at Manchester City.
“I think his future is without any shadow of a doubt, away from the Etihad Stadium. If he wants any chance of getting back in the England team then he needs to be playing regularly.
“I would think that a player like that would do well at Goodison Park. He is a gutsy player who works hard, and fights for every ball, he is the type of player who Everton supporters love.
“It would be fantastic to see him resurrect his career and get back to his previous levels.”
Phillips’ Growing Frustrations At The Etihad Stadium
Phillips struggled to secure a regular starting spot in Pep Guardiola’s first XI in the previous campaign. The English talent made just 20 appearances for Man City last season, scoring one goal in the process across multiple competitions.
The Leeds-born talent saw most of his appearances come off the bench which explains why he only averaged 0.8 tackles, 0.5 interceptions and 0.5 clearances per 90 minutes in the Premier League. He was careful when distributing the ball from midfield based on his pass completion rate of 89.7% in the English top flight (stats via whoscored).
Should Everton Recruit Phillips This Summer?
Phillips is a tough-tackling midfielder who can provide decent protection for his teammates at the back. He can make the odd interception for his team at the centre of the park and doesn’t mind clearing the danger when required.
The English midfield ace is a good passer of the ball as well and could benefit from playing regular first-team football in the upcoming campaign. Thus, it makes sense for Everton boss Sean Dyche to try and recruit Phillips this summer.
The former Leeds United player would add more bite and steel to the Merseyside club‘s midfield. He might even help the Toffees push for a top-half finish in the Premier League next season. At 28, Phillips is playing in his prime and could be a real asset in Dyche’s squad in the future.
