2.1 tackles and pass success rate of 83.2% – Premier League bigwigs should take note of this 22-year-old Championship ace

Stats Analysis – Kalvin Phillips, Premier League clubs should be taking note

Leeds United have made an impressive start to life under Marcelo Bielsa and subsequently to their season in the Championship. After an explosive beginning in the first five games, they wobbled a bit. However, in the past two games, they have regained the determination to win games and challenge for the promotion spots.

The Peacocks are now second in the table, very close to leaders Norwich City, and are one of the favourites to qualify for Premier League football next season.

Credit must be given to the manager for making the team play like an attractive prospect in such a short space of time. Players need to learn the way Bielsa wants to play, inherit that system in their playing style and deliver a fantastic brand of football on the pitch.

One player, who operates chiefly as a defensive midfielder, has been a terrific asset to the team so far this season – Kalvin Phillips. The young Englishman is a vital player in the Bielsa system, sitting in front of the back line and orchestrating the whole work of the team.

Below, we analyse his performances, using some stats to back the facts and conclude why Premier League clubs should have a close eye on him for the future:

Stats Analysis – Kalvin Phillips

Playing that holding midfield role is key as the player has to be good in all aspects of his game. He needs to read the game well to make tackles and interceptions while being excellent on the ball to initiate attacks as well.

Phillips has a pass success rate of 83.2%, which is good for the player since he always tries to play forward passes. He is great in the air, winning aerial duels at a rate of 2.4, meaning he can drop in as an extra centre-back when required.

The fact that he averages 2.1 tackles and 1.4 interceptions epitomize his strength of reading the game to full extent. The Englishman is physically strong, indicating that he can protect the ball well in tight situations and create space for others.

Read More: Leeds’ goalkeeping woes would be over if they sign this 33-year-old experienced head in January

Conclusion

It is fair to say Kalvin Phillips has had a terrific season so far and is relishing playing the beautiful football under Bielsa. The Premier League clubs should take note of his performances and ready offers on the table in the summer transfer window, regardless of whether Leeds get promoted or not.

Stats Courtesy – Whoscored.com