Former Leeds United manager Neil Redfearn has praised the club for rewarding Kalvin Phillips with a new long-term contract.

The midfielder, who is now set to stay at Elland Road until 2024 (via Transfermarkt), is one of three players who have committed their futures to Leeds this week.

Following Phillips' agreement, Stuart Dallas and Liam Cooper were both given new deals by the Whites.

During his brief spell in charge of Leeds between 2014 and 2015, Redfearn handed Phillips his debut in a 4-3 defeat to Wolverhampton Wanderers.

After impressing in this clash, the midfielder kept his place in the side and marked his first appearance at Elland Road with a goal against Cardiff City.

Whilst Redfearn was eventually sacked by the Whites following a poor run of results, Phillips soon established himself as a regular starter for the club.

Having now made 149 senior appearances for Leeds, the 23-year-old will be determined to lead his side to promotion next May following last season's near miss.

Speaking to the Yorkshire Evening Post about the Whites' decision to give Phillips a new deal, Redfearn said: "I am chuffed for Kalvin and Leeds that he is staying with them and has got a five-year deal.

"He is someone they have to build a side around - his improvement has been that good."

"Leeds want to put a marker down and try and get promoted and Kalvin is their number one asset and they have done the sensible thing and shown a bit of foresight and it has to be applauded."

The Verdict

When you consider just how impressive Phillips has been over the past 12 months since Marcelo Bielsa's arrival at Elland Road, Leeds will be delighted that he has committed his future to the club.

Unquestionably one of the best players in the Championship, the midfielder could set the league alight this season providing that he stays fit.

With the Whites looking to end their hiatus from the Premier League in 2020, Phillips could play a pivotal role in helping the club achieve this particular goal.