Former Leeds boss backs Chris Wilder to revive Kalvin Phillips' career at Sheffield United
Kalvin Phillips has been backed to get is career back on track under the stewardship of Chris Wilder at Sheffield United.
Former Leeds United manager Simon Grayson believes Chris Wilder can help Kalvin Phillips get his career back on track after joining Sheffield United.
The midfield enforcer, 30, joined the Blades on loan for the remainder of the season from Manchester City on deadline day, marking a statement signing for the Championship play-off hopefuls.
Despite struggling for game time at City this season, earning a paltry seven minutes in the Carabao Cup, Phillips joined the Premier League outfit for a reported fee of £42million less than four years ago, highlighting how big a coup it is for the Blades to have drafted him in.
Fitness issues have been a problem for the defensive-midfielder in recent seasons, but his performances for England at the rearranged European Championship in 2021 demonstrated how good a player he is when at the peak of his powers.
With his career having stalled this season, his temporary switch to Bramall Lane should give him the opportunity to make up for lost time and the chance to enjoy his football again.
And in the opinion of Grayson, Wilder, alongside assistant Alan Knill, is the perfect figure to try and revive the former Leeds midfielder’s career after a difficult and testing period.
Grayson tips Phillips to succeed under Wilder
Penning his column for The Football League Paper, Grayson said: “It’s got to the point, I think, where doesn’t care about the level. He just wants to get back to playing regularly and get back to feeling loved again.
“That’s why I think this loan move to Sheffield United is perfect for him. Chris Wilder is an excellent man-manager, who is very good at working out at what players need to perform at their best.
“Him and Alan Knill have been round the block plenty of times and they’ll understand that - for all his quality and experience - Kalvin probably just needs an arm around him at this point in his career. Chris will talk up his ability and fight his corner - and that’s exactly what’s required.
“He’s got a few mates from Leeds there as well - Pat Bamford, obviously, plus Jamie Shackleton and Leo Hjelde who has just come in from Sunderland. That will help.
“From Sheffield United’s point of view, it’s a hell of a coup and a clear signal that they don’t think the play-offs are out of reach.”