Pundit thinks English midfielder who is ‘better than Rice’ would be good fit for Spurs

Former Tottenham and England number one Paul Robinson has claimed that Kalvin Phillips would be a good fit for Tottenham (Football Insider).

This comes after the Telegraph recently reported that Tottenham hold a strong interest in the Leeds midfielder ahead of the summer.

Robinson, who made 175 appearances over a four-year spell at White Hart Lane (TransferMarkt), argues that if Antonio Conte is looking for reinforcements in central midfield this summer, then he should look no further than Leeds United’s Kalvin Phillips.

The 26-year-old has endured a frustrating Premier League season with his boyhood club, only managing 19 appearances due to a hamstring injury sustained in December (TransferMarkt).

However, there is no doubting Phillip’s ability. His combative nature allows him to expertly break up play, whilst he combines composure, driving runs, and accurate passing which sets him out as one of England’s top midfield talents.

Phillips was named England men’s player of the year in the 2020/21 season after he helped propel his country to the European Championship final with a string of inspiring displays (England Football).

Asked about Phillips’ future, Robinson said: “If Leeds go down Kalvin Phillips will not be there. Even if Leeds stay up, there will be no shortage of takers for Kalvin Phillips. He’d fit in at Spurs.

“He was England’s best player last year. His quality is unprecedented. I think he is better than Declan Rice. He offers more going forward than Rice. His energy, his engine and his creativity are there for all to see.

“Leeds will struggle to hold onto him this summer if a big bid comes in.

“Phillips will be going to the England camp and see his teammates playing in the Champions League and competing for top honours. It is only a matter of time before he wants that as well. He is good enough to do it as well.”

However, with Newcastle United, Aston Villa (Football Insider), and Manchester United (The Sun) all reportedly interested in Phillips, Spurs would likely face stiff competition for his signature.

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With The Telegraph previously reporting that Conte has his heart set on two new midfielders in the upcoming transfer window, adding a player of Phillip’s quality would be a statement of intent from Fabio Paratici and co.

With Leeds’ Premier League status hanging by a thread, it is not unlikely that their star midfielder will seek new pastures this summer.

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