Former Premier League official Mike Dean didn’t hold back in criticizing Kalvin Phillips as ‘reckless’ following the midfielder’s disastrous performance during West Ham’s clash with Nottingham Forest.
THE INCIDENT
Phillips, 28, received two yellow cards in quick succession, leading to his expulsion from the field during West Ham’s 2-0 loss against Nottingham Forest. Dean, now a pundit on Sky Sports’ Soccer Saturday, didn’t mince words when discussing the sequence of events.
MIKE DEAN’S REMARKS
In a candid assessment, Dean remarked, “He’s just been cautioned for an unnecessary altercation with [Nicolas] Dominguez. Then, two minutes later, he recklessly flicks the ball over [Morgan] Gibbs-White, catching him on the foot. It’s foolish to earn your second yellow card like that. He seems disinterested to me.”
REACTION FROM FANS
Disgruntled West Ham supporters took to social media to voice their frustrations, with one even suggesting Phillips’ loan deal be terminated during the game itself.
Phillips’ transition to life in East London has been turbulent, with his error-strewn performances against Arsenal and Nottingham Forest raising doubts about his ability to replicate the form that earned him a regular spot in the England squad.
WHAT’S NEXT?
With Phillips suspended, West Ham will face Brentford in their bid to break their winless streak on Monday, February 26. The events at the City Ground have only intensified fans’ dissatisfaction with manager David Moyes, who has yet to fully win over the Hammers faithful.
