Jude Bellingham reacts to Leeds star's semi-final display in three words; Bukayo Saka also comments

By Jordan Harris

Jude Bellingham and Bukayo Saka were amongst those to laud Kalvin Phillips on Instagram after the Leeds United star produced another superb display to help England win the Euro 2020 semi-final.

Phillips kept his place as Gareth Southgate’s side contested their last four clash with Denmark on Wednesday.

It proved to be every bit as nerve-shredding as fans probably expected. Ultimately however, England came from behind to win and set up a final with Italy this weekend.

And Phillips was at the heart of their success, with many insisting on social media following the game that he was the best player on the park.

Ashley Cole meanwhile, admitted after the game that he felt compelled to pull Phillips aside to tell him just how impressed he had been after previously expressing his doubts about the Leeds talisman.

And the plaudits have continued on Instagram. Unsurprisingly, Phillips was keen to express his sheer delight about the result.

And in response, Phillips received a raft of replies from teammates for club and country.

Declan Rice sent a classy message to the 25-year-old as their partnership continues to emphatically silence those who claimed that playing two holding midfielders together was a mistake.

Meanwhile, there was also praise from Saka, Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Jude Bellingham amongst others…

Leeds fans bursting with pride as Kalvin Phillips shines in England run past Euro 2020 semi-final

It is remarkable to see how far Phillips has come. He made his England debut less than a year ago.

Three years ago, he had completed a campaign in the Championship where – despite scoring seven goals – he looked to be struggling for a direction in his career.

Marcelo Bielsa’s arrival did change everything, it seems. But Phillips deserves so much credit for the progress he has made.

Whatever happens on Sunday, Leeds supporters will probably struggle to suggest how Phillips could make them prouder.