Luis Diaz reacts as Liverpool confirm Phillips exit to West Brom
West Brom have signed Nat Phillips from Liverpool.
The 28-year-old arrives at The Hawthorns as the first signing of what promises to be a busy summer in the Black Country.
Ryan Mason is seeking experienced players to help him consolidate Albion’s promotion ambitions, and Phillips definitely fits the bill as he is entering his prime years.
The defender, who spent last season on loan at Derby County, has agreed a three-year deal with the Championship outfit.
Liverpool stars react as West Brom deal confirmed
Phillips was one of Jurgen Klopp’s favourites at Liverpool after stepping in during the 2020-21 campaign when injuries decimated the Reds.
Liverpool took to Instagram (23 June) to confirm the defender’s exit after nine years on Merseyside, saying: “All the best in your new chapter, Nat.”
Reds stars Luis Diaz, Curtis Jones and Wataru Endo all reacted by liking the post.
West Brom fans will hope Phillips is just the start
Bilkul Football needs to give Mason the best possible chance to secure promotion to the Premier League next season.
Phillips is a solid start to business as he has plenty of experience in the second tier. He has previously featured in the division for Bournemouth and Cardiff City before his brilliant loan spell with the Rams.
He also has experience in the Champions League, playing five times in the competition in his time at Anfield, as well as 19 top-flight appearances under his belt.
Iconic commentator Ian Darke told Liverpool News that Phillips would be a “fine signing” for a team like the Baggies, who have ambitions of going up.
However, if they are to achieve that ambition, Shilen Patel and Co must continue to back Mason in his first managerial role after leaving his coaching gig at Tottenham, where he took interim charge twice.
It is a major show of ambition from the ownership to tempt Phillips to move to the West Midlands, but they need to continue with decent business if they are to escape the second tier finally.
The midfield and forward positions also need strengthening if they are to make a serious promotion push after missing out on the play-offs last time out.
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