Leeds United: Fans gutted by Kalvin Phillips injury blow vs Reading

A number of Leeds United fans appeared to be fearing the worst for their current promotion hopes after news delivered by Phil Hay that Kalvin Phillips was forced off in their game against Reading due to an off-the-ball injury.

Although the Whites managed to secure all three points with the victory, many were left anxious at just what the midfielder’s potential absence could mean for the rest of their Championship season.

Indeed, the 24-year-old has been a crucial member of Marcelo Bielsa’s side over the past two campaigns and has figured prominently for the Elland Road outfit once again this year – achieving some impressive figures along the way.

Having played 30 games in England’s second-tier so far, Phillips has already managed to produce an exceptional 2.8 total tackles per match, 1.3 interceptions every 90 minutes whilst offering his team-mates a further 1.3 clearances as well (per WhoScored).

It is not just defensively the talented midfielder’s presence on the field is felt by those at Leeds either, though, as has contributed an average of 1.9 key passes per game and has chipped in with one goal and two assists so far (WhoScored) to try and get the club back to the promised land.

Clearly, some fans were fretting on Twitter when they saw that he had to be withdrawn in the first half of the encounter with Reading, with many appearing to share the same view that he would be a “massive loss” and that they hope it is not too serious.

Here are just some of their reactions…

https://twitter.com/KieranP2169/status/1231246417391386625

Not a great half. Leeds the better side but only one clear cut chance which Helder Costa should have scored. Reading a threat on the counter. Phillips going off injured is a huge worry. #lufc #MOT

— Through It All Together (@ThruItAllLUFC) February 22, 2020