Leeds United icons Simon Grayson and Liam Cooper have sent messages of support to Kalvin Phillips after he made his long-awaited return for Manchester City.
Kalvin Phillips has endured a torrid period since leaving Leeds to join Manchester City, as a lack of form and fitness saw him fall out of favour under Pep Guardiola.
The Thorp Arch product joined City in 2022, but has been restricted to just 32 appearances for his new club in all competitions since 2022.
However, Phillips has been handed a surprise lifeline by Guardiola, having been named in their 25-man squad for the 2025/26 Premier League season.
Now, several Leeds icons have reacted after he made his long-awaited return to the Man City team in their EFL Cup win over Huddersfield Town.
Kalvin Phillips sends message after Manchester City return
Phillips made his first appearance for Manchester City since the 19th December 2023 in the Club World Cup, as he was introduced as an 83rd-minute substitute.
His appearance represents a remarkable turnaround for the England international, who has spent spells on loan with West Ham and Ipswich Town in recent years, and was linked with a return to Elland Road in the summer transfer window.
Posting on his personal Instagram account after the game, Phillips acknowledged his struggles in a post which stated: “It’s been a long 3 and a half months out and there’s still work to be done personally.
“Nevertheless, I’m so happy to be back out on the pitch again in a City shirt. Thank you to the fans for your support; it doesn’t go unnoticed. On to the next round.”
Phillips will be hoping that he can earn more minutes for Man City when they take on Swansea in the next round of the EFL Cup.
Leeds United icons react to Kalvin Phillips’ return
Phillips’ post on Instagram prompted several reactions from his former Leeds teammates, who sent messages of support to the midfielder.
Former Leeds captain Liam Cooper led the response, sending in a short reply which stated: “There he is 👏🏻👏🏻.”
Simon Grayson, who led Leeds back to the Championship in his time as manager, followed suit, posting: “Great to see you back playing Kalvin.”
Luke Ayling also sent his congratulations to Phillips after his return to the playing field, as he replied: “We love to see it, Phil.”
This was accompanied by another message of support from England and Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham, who said: “What a sight.”
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