Kalvin Phillips in tears after Leeds draw with Brighton - journalist
Kalvin Phillips was in tears walking around the Elland Road pitch after Leeds United’s final home game of the season on Sunday as they drew with Brighton.
Leeds have given themselves a lifeline heading into the final day. For much of the game it appeared that they were heading for another frustrating loss as Danny Welbeck had given the visitors the lead.
Stoppage-time came at the end of the second-half and Leeds were still behind. However, there was to be one final twist. Pascal Struijk headed home after some outstanding work from Joe Gelhardt inside the box.
The result lifts Leeds out of the bottom three. Burnley do have a game in hand. But the final day will be decisive.
Of course, Sunday’s fixture could be significant for many of the current squad, particularly if Leeds are relegated. Some will have made their final appearance at Elland Road for the club.
And Phillips is one of those likely to leave if relegation is confirmed next weekend. And clearly, that fact was not lost on the England international after the full-time whistle.
As noted by Leeds Live journalist Beren Cross, Phillips was in tears as he left the field after applauding the fans.
Tears from Phillips as he finishes a lap of the pitch. #lufc
— Beren Cross (@BerenCross) May 15, 2022
Kalvin Phillips was in tears as Leeds keep survival hopes alive
Leeds fans know what is at stake. Perhaps Raphinha will leave whatever happens, but it seems much more possible that Phillips will stay if Jesse Marsch’s men keep themselves up.
Reports claim that the likes of Liverpool and Manchester United want Phillips – and they are unlikely to be the only ones.
Leeds have given themselves a lifeline. And they will desperately hope that Sunday is not the final time Phillips represents the club.
