Lord Alfred
Striker
Nope just checked he set the championship alight scoring 14 goals including his stunning performance in the play offs. I reckon that's what caught o Neil's eye, but nevertheless a cracking season in the championship coupled with 6 decent months in the premier league....by early 20's they've achieved about the same and prime time for a big move and step up
You suggested that Phillips had the bonus of a decent PL season whereas Young was snapped up from a Championship Watford team though. Young was outstanding for those first few months in the PL and that's why O'Neill stepped in for him. Phillips by comparison was allowed to drop down the leagues after his PL introduction with no (apparent) interest in him.
No axe to grind here.......fine as cover/competition but he's not (yet) 1st team material imo.