Sheffield United backed to seal eye-catching Kalvin Phillips transfer move as Leeds United icons point underlined
Former Sheffield United midfielder Don Hutchison believes Kalvin Phillips would suit Chris Wilder’s side if the Blades revisit a deal for the Manchester City man this summer.
As a man who graced the Sheffield United midfield for a memorable spell during the 1990s, Don Hutchison knows a thing or two about what it takes to play in the middle of the park at Bramall Lane. And the former Scotland international has backed Kalvin Phillips for a return to South Yorkshire next term.
Phillips’ loan spell at United officially expires this summer but despite his limited involvement, hampered by suspension and then injury, the Blades would be interested in a reunion for 2026/27 should another satisfactory arrangement be struck with Manchester City.
The former England international impressed United staff with his attitude during his time with the club and was grateful for the chance to kickstart his career again back in his native Yorkshire, even if he wasn’t able to take it after suffering a frustrating and unfortunate knee injury.
And former Liverpool, Everton and West Ham midfielder Hutchison told The Star, via BestBettingSites: “I would [bring back Phillips next season.] I would. I think Chris Wilder can get the best out of him.
“I think he's one of these players who suits Sheffield United. I think he suits the city, and suits the work ethic of what Sheffield United fans want and expect from a player. He's a player that can roll his sleeves up, and I think he'll do well for them.”
Wilder has already worked his magic on Phillips’ former Elland Road teammate Patrick Bamford, who came in as a free agent in November but quickly made up for lost time by finishing the campaign as United’s top scorer.
He remains under contract for next term after signing fresh terms in mid-January and has been earmarked as a key cog in the United machine as they look to banish the memory of an underwhelming season.
“It was a brave signing, wasn't it?” added Hutchison of Bamford. “Not many players have done that. But I think he's got a big summer on. Chris Wilder has steered Sheffield United away from relegation; they couldn't quite get a run together and have been a little bit inconsistent.
“He tried to get them toward the play-off spots, but maybe that was a little bit unrealistic. So the job that he's got in the summer, again, is clearing deadwood. It's making Sheffield United hungry again, like that first spell when he brought them up and had them playing some super football.
“So I think it's a big summer for Sheffield United and Chris Wilder. I think he'll turn it around and do much better next season. Could they push for promotion? I think there’s no reason why not. Under Chris Wilder, they could.”