As noises began to grow more ominous about the idea of Kalvin Phillips leaving Leeds for Manchester City this summer, a debate broke out on social media. For many Leeds fans, the 'Yorkshire Pirlo' is an irreplaceable player because of what he represents. In Phillips, Leeds had a fan on the pitch. Not only that, they had their first England international whilst still at the club, after over a decade of Leeds academy products having to leave Elland Road in order to realise their dreams of playing for their country.
Not only that, there was a tweet of a video clip containing a Sky Sports graphic which was shared regularly. This was to demonstrate the on-field importance of Phillips to the Whites over the last few years, with their win rate significantly lower without the England midfielder.
Given that Leeds have now agreed a deal with City, with the player expected to join the Premier League champions next week, there is concern about how the Whites will cope without their academy product. Of course, Phillips will be replaced but -given the stark difference in their ability to win games without Phillips - fans will be alarmed until they see how any new signing will adapt to the team.
