West Ham United v Newcastle: Kalvin Phillips slammed by Gabby Agbonlahor
Gabby Agbonlahor and Dean Ashton have slammed Kalvin Phillips as West Ham lost 4-3 to Newcastle on 30 March.
Despite leading 3-1, the Hammers ended up losing the match at St James’ Park and the England international played a part in a couple of the goals scored by the Magpies.
His struggles have continued since his loan move from Manchester City in January.
Ashton told talkSPORT: “Phillips knows nothing about it, he doesn’t see Gordon behind him – he is just thinking, ‘I’m going to clear this’, and Gordon just pretty bravely sticks his leg in the way as he tries to hook the ball, and he knows he’s going to get whacked.
“But it just seems to go from bad to worse for Kalvin Phillips in a West Ham shirt.
Agbonlahor said: “He just looks so low on confidence.
“He comes on, that happens and you can see it in his face, he’s not really getting on the ball as he’s meant to.
“And for Barnes’ winner, he just turns Phillips too easily, and after Barnes turns him Phillips just walks. He must be so low on confidence, it’s really hard.”
Kalvin Phillips’ struggles at West Ham continue
Phillips must be enduring a challenging time, especially after his recent performance.
Conceding a crucial penalty and contributing to the team’s collapse against Newcastle only adds to his struggles since joining the club on loan.
Phillips’ inability to make a positive impact and his involvement in critical errors raise doubts about his suitability for a permanent signing for the Hammers.
If he continues to perform below expectations, the club’s management may reconsider their plans to retain him beyond his loan spell.
Phillips’ confidence appears to be affected, evident in his on-field struggles and lack of impact.
For West Ham to go to the next level, they need players who can consistently deliver under pressure and if Phillips fails to meet this standard, it’s unlikely that the club will pursue a permanent deal for him.
In other West Ham news, Michael Owen has been left fuming amid a recent controversy in London involving the Hammers.
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