Sheffield United have officially announced the season-long loan signing of Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips, with the Yorkshireman returning to South Yorkshire for a second spell with the Blades.
The deal was confirmed on Tuesday night, bringing to an end a period of work behind the scenes to reunite Phillips with Chris Wilder’s side. Having already spent a short period at Bramall Lane earlier this year, the midfielder was keen to return to a club where he quickly established a strong connection with the supporters, coaching staff and his teammates.
Phillips’ first spell with United was unfortunately cut short. A suspension, followed by a niggling injury, restricted his involvement and prevented him from making the sort of impact that both the player and club had hoped for.
Despite that disappointment, Wilder remained convinced that Phillips could make a significant difference at Championship level. The midfielder’s quality, experience and ability to dictate play from the middle of the pitch made him an attractive option, particularly for a United squad containing a number of younger players.
Chris Wilder Speaks Fondly About Phillips
The Blades boss was delighted to finally get the deal over the line and revealed that both Phillips and the club had been keen on making a return happen throughout the summer.
“We’ve stayed in contact with Kalvin throughout the summer and in those conversations what was always clear was both sides wanted to make this happen,” Wilder said to the club media.
“Clearly, there has had to be a degree of patience to get a deal completed. Make no mistake, this is a good deal for the football club, and I have to thank the owners and Stephen Bettis for their diligence and persistence to get this one done.”
Wilder also highlighted Phillips’ character as one of the major reasons United were so keen to bring him back.
“Since the first day Kalvin walked through the door here, he instantly ticked the boxes in terms of personality and character, both on the field and behind the scenes and he offers more experience in a crucial area of the pitch,” he added.
“Kalvin is a winner; he’s achieved plenty in his career and he’ll set the example to this young squad we have here.”
Phillips on His Sheffield United Return
For Phillips himself, returning to Sheffield United represents an opportunity to put right what he feels was an unfinished chapter from his previous spell.
“This was the move I wanted,” Phillips said to SUTV. “My time was spoiled by my last game and the injury after that so I’m here to put that right.”
The 30-year-old also spoke positively about returning to a familiar dressing room, with much of the squad from last season remaining together.
“The squad is similar to what it was last year, I’m happy to see everyone and I’m looking forward to coming back fighting fit,” he explained.
“It is a good feeling to walk back through the doors in Shirecliffe, I see that the pre-season has been tough and the lads have come out flying so I’m happy to start training and get involved.”
Phillips’ return is another boost for Wilder as United look to build momentum at the beginning of the new campaign. The Blades have already shown encouraging signs during pre-season and began their competitive campaign with a comfortable 3-0 victory over Mansfield Town in the EFL Cup.
However, the real test will come in the Championship, with United preparing to face Birmingham City at Bramall Lane in their opening league fixture.
The question now is just how quickly Phillips can get up to speed. Either way, his arrival gives United another proven option in an important area of the pitch and, crucially, provides Wilder with a player he clearly trusts.
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