Patrick Bamford claims Kalvin Phillips has toned it down in Leeds training this week

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Patrick Bamford has told Hylo Athletics on Instagram – as per Leeds Live – that Kalvin Phillips has toned down the rivalry between Leeds United and Manchester United this week ahead of Sunday’s encounter at Elland Road.

Phillips, 25, is Leeds born and bred – and knows the feeling among fans towards Manchester United. He was in the academy when Leeds beat Sir Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United back in the FA Cup third round in January 2010.

Last time out, England international Phillips is said to have been very vocal about the rivalry between the two sides – and it might have proved detrimental as Leeds were annihilated 6-2 by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side at Old Trafford.

This time around, ahead of Sunday’s match against United, Bamford has claimed that Phillips has toned down the importance of the match during training this week – as Leeds look to go six Premier League games unbeaten.

“Kalvin’s one of them [who know what the game means],” Bamford said. “He hasn’t played it up as much this time, but definitely the first time around we played them, he’s like ‘this is a massive game’.

“He’s tried to tone it down a little bit, but the fact it’s at Elland Road makes it better. This week he hasn’t said much. He’ll probably talk more the day before the game, but being from Leeds it’s massive for him as well.”

TBR’s view – Where can Leeds take advantage of United?

The area in which Leeds have over United is probably in the middle of the park. That is not to say Leeds have better players but if Leeds are to get the better of United anywhere on the pitch – it is likely to be in the middle.

The tactical nous and passing of Kalvin Phillips can nullify Bruno Fernandes, Stuart Dallas and his stamina can match that of Scott McTominay and Tyler Roberts can draw Fred out of position with his creativity and skill.

United are favourites and should win but at Elland Road, Leeds have a chance, especially given their current form.