Kalvin Phillips makes ‘Heavy’ admission amid tough West Ham start
Kalvin Phillips has made an early admission about his West Ham loan career after a “lethargic” start against Bournemouth and Manchester United.
The England international made the switch from Manchester City during the January transfer window in search of valuable game time before Euro 2024.
Phillips’ rustiness has been extremely evident with two mistakes in his first two appearances under David Moyes but remains hopeful that he can turn things around at London Stadium.
Speaking to The Mirror on Saturday (10 February), he said: “In the last few games I’ve made mistakes, simply because I’m trying to get used to the people around me and the way we play.
“Against Bournemouth, I felt very lethargic, a little bit heavy in my legs towards the end of the first half. It just comes down to game-time and now I’m grasping the idea, hopefully, the mistakes will now stop.”
Kalvin Phillips needs patience from West Ham
The criticism of Phillips so far has been extremely harsh. Despite playing a role in Bournemouth’s opening goal on 1 February, with Dominic Solanke scoring after just three minutes, Kurt Zouma was just as at fault, if not the main reason.
He was still dropped for the Hammers’ next fixture against Man United, however, used as a substitute while 2-0 down to the Red Devils. The midfield was thrown into the action, quickly dispossessed in the build-up to Alejandro Garnacho’s second of the game.
Fans are aware of the skill and talent Phillips possesses, there is no doubt about that. Moyes has been a long-time admirer of the England midfielder, and alongside Edson Alvarez, the Man City loanee should thrive over the next few months.
Match sharpness is the key issue in the 28-year-old’s current situation, which will only be improved by playing more minutes at London Stadium. With only two league starts under Pep Guardiola last season, it comes as no surprise that Phillips needs time.
In other West Ham news, Edson Alvarez sent a two-word message after one Hammers departure.
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