Jesse Marsch suggests Kalvin Phillips return was huge for Leeds

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Jesse Marsch has said in his press conference that Kalvin Phillips being back for Leeds United on Saturday meant a lot – even if the midfielder did not feel that he did anything of note against Southampton.

Phillips made his long-awaited return last weekend as Leeds hosted the Saints at Elland Road. The England international had previously been sidelined since December due to injury.

He was not quite ready to start against Ralph Hasenhuttl’s men. But he was able to come on after the break as Leeds pressed for a winner, but also looked to ensure that they took something from the game.

With one more week of training, Leeds fans will hope that Phillips is ready to start against Watford. It is a crucial game at the bottom of the Premier League table.

For many, Phillips coming back is a huge boost for Leeds. And they were encouraged by his cameo against the Saints. Phillips however, seemingly did not feel that he offered a lot to the game.

But Marsch suggested that Phillips is downplaying just how significant his return was for Leeds.

“To have Kalvin on the pitch, I think everybody saw that it brought poise to our group, that he helped settle the game down. I heard him say after the game that he didn’t do much, but just by being on the pitch for us, I think that that presence meant a lot,” he said, in his press conference.

Kalvin Phillips return could be huge for Leeds

Leeds have a very decent record this season when Phillips has been involved. They have lost three in the 13 league games he has played. And those defeats came against Liverpool, West Ham and Tottenham.

He is an outstanding performer. And it would appear that he is set to retain an important role now that Marsch has succeeded Marcelo Bielsa.

So his return to the starting lineup could be extremely pivotal as Leeds look to get themselves across the line in the race for survival.