West Ham loan move rules Kalvin Phillips out of defining Premier League clash

Redaction Willow Austin with Harry Winters
Published on 2024-01-26 10:00:00

Kalvin Phillips has made a significant move to West Ham for the remainder of the Premier League season, potentially impacting his availability for a crucial match. The 28-year-old midfielder completed a loan transfer to David Moyes’ side, leaving Manchester City where he had only made two starts this season. This move puts Phillips at risk of missing out on a place in the England squad for the upcoming European Championship in Germany, presenting a dilemma for manager Gareth Southgate.

Since his £42 million transfer from Elland Road to Etihad Stadium in July 2022, Phillips has made 31 appearances for Manchester City, but has only started six matches in the last 18 months. Despite his limited playing time, he was part of Pep Guardiola’s treble-winning squad last season and has claimed five trophies during his time at the club.

Phillips’ move to West Ham came after returning to the UK from a warm-weather training camp in Abu Dhabi, with the Hammers beating out several other Premier League clubs to secure his signature. This included interest from Newcastle United, Crystal Palace, Fulham, Juventus, and Atletico Madrid.

However, this move rules Phillips out of a potentially crucial Premier League clash as West Ham is set to visit the Etihad Stadium on the final day of the season. Premier League rules will prevent Phillips from playing against his former club, who are currently vying for a record-breaking fourth successive title.

Manchester City, currently five points behind league leaders Liverpool, are eager to close the gap and regain their position at the top of the table. Their next match against Burnley on January 31st may see the return of key players Kevin De Bruyne and Erling Haaland. The outcome of the remainder of the season, including the impact of Phillips’ move to West Ham, will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the Premier League title race.

Read Original article on City Xtra