Derby County told they’ll regret not signing ‘excellent’ West Brom player this summer
Nat Phillips has been one of the main reasons behind West Brom’s flying start to the season.
Phillips hasn’t missed a single minute so far and has helped the Baggies to second in the table.
Phillips has established a solid partnership with Chris Mepham, with the defensive unit registering two clean sheets already this season.
West Brom face Derby this weekend as they look to maintain their unbeaten start to the campaign.
Phillips will come up against his former side at the Hawthorns, and some of the away support are already regretting facing him.
Derby County really wanted to keep Nat Phillips
Phillips spent last season on loan at the Rams, making 33 appearances in their return to the Championship.
The defender is sorely missed in the East Midlands as they prepare for their trip to the Hawthorns this weekend.
Speaking on the Liquidator Podcast, Nigel Owen of Rams Review, explained why Derby could not hang on to Phillips: “I think we would have loved to have kept him. We knew his wages coming out of Liverpool were going to be significant, and whether we could make that fit into our budget”
Owens also explained that Phillips was key in Derby’s survival last season: “He was a key part of keeping us up in the second half of last season once he established himself in the side”
Former Baggie Nigel Quashie was full of praise for Phillips, hailing him as ‘excellent’ and admiring his leadership skills.
Ryan Mason will be relying on Phillips for promotion
Phillips has made it clear that promotion is the target for the Baggies as they look to continue their hot start to the season.
West Brom manager Ryan Mason will hope he can continue his own personal form and help lead them to the promised land.
Phillips and Mepham, alongside Callum Styles and George Campbell, have been a resolute defensive unit so far.
Baggies fans know that Phillips’ experience and leadership will be key to any success they may have this year
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