“That’s awful!” — Kalvin Phillips is sent off after a horror tackle.

Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips has issued an emotional apology after being sent off during the fiercely contested Sheffield derby. The 30-year-old, who joined Sheffield United on loan in January in a bid to reignite his career, endured a difficult afternoon that marked another setback in his attempt to rediscover form.

Phillips was visibly distraught as he left the pitch following his red card in Sunday’s Steel City clash against Sheffield Wednesday. At the time of the dismissal, the Blades were firmly in control, holding a 2-0 advantage over their local rivals. However, the complexion of the match shifted dramatically in the 49th minute when Phillips was shown a straight red card for a heavy challenge on Wednesday midfielder Svante Ingelsson.

Having moved to Bramall Lane during the winter transfer window, Phillips was eager to make a positive impression. In the incident that led to his dismissal, he lunged into a tackle and appeared to win the ball cleanly at first glance. Yet his momentum carried him through, and his studs caught Ingelsson’s left knee in the follow-through. The force of the contact prompted immediate concern among Wednesday players.

Kalvin Phillips was sent off for Sheffield United against Sheffield Wednesday(Image: Sky Sports)

Referee Josh Smith paused momentarily before reaching into his pocket and producing the red card. Phillips stood in disbelief, cutting a dejected figure as the decision was made. While several Wednesday players gathered around Ingelsson and the match official, Phillips glanced toward the fourth official and appeared to question the call, mouthing: “How is that a red?”

Despite his initial protest, it did not take long for the midfielder to acknowledge the gravity of the situation. As he trudged toward the tunnel, Phillips raised his hands in apology to the Sheffield United supporters. With tears visible in his eyes, he expressed remorse for the challenge and the consequences it brought at such a crucial stage of the derby.

Prior to the dismissal, the Blades had been cruising thanks to first-half goals from Patrick Bamford and Harrison Burrows. Their two-goal cushion had given them confidence and control, but Phillips’ red card handed renewed belief to the visitors.

Indeed, just three minutes after the sending-off, Charlie McNeill reduced the deficit to 2-1, silencing much of the home crowd inside Bramall Lane. The goal injected fresh momentum into Wednesday’s performance and threatened to turn the tide.

However, Sheffield United eventually steadied themselves as the second half progressed. Manager Chris Wilder introduced three substitutions, a move that helped restore composure and limit Wednesday’s clear-cut opportunities. Aside from McNeill’s strike, the visitors struggled to create significant chances as the contest settled.

The stakes surrounding the derby were considerable, particularly for Sheffield Wednesday. If they were to lose, they would make unwanted history by becoming the first club to suffer relegation in February. Their season has been marred by off-field turmoil, having entered administration in October. As a result, they were docked 12 points and subsequently hit with an additional six-point penalty for breaching EFL financial regulations. Those sanctions left them on minus seven points heading into the derby, compounding the pressure.

For Phillips, the aftermath of his red card carries immediate consequences. The dismissal means he is set to serve a three-match suspension, ruling him out of upcoming Championship fixtures against Coventry City, Queens Park Rangers and West Bromwich Albion. The timing represents another hurdle in what has already been a challenging campaign for the midfielder.

Having sought a fresh start with Sheffield United, Phillips will now be forced to watch from the sidelines as his teammates continue their promotion push. His emotional apology underscored his disappointment, but the focus will soon shift to how both player and club respond in the weeks ahead.

Leeds United are interested in signing a midfielder from the Championship

Leeds United are reportedly showing interest in securing the services of a Championship midfielder as the summer transfer window approaches. According to SportsBloom, the club are closely observing Bristol City captain Jason Knight, a development that underlines both the urgency of their current situation and their longer-term ambitions.

With 12 matches left in the Premier League campaign, Daniel Farke’s side find themselves in 15th position, holding a six-point advantage over the relegation zone. Advancement to the fifth round of the FA Cup has provided a measure of optimism, but preserving top-flight status remains the overriding objective. Avoiding relegation would give Leeds the platform to rebuild more strategically, focusing on players who can transform what has been a vulnerable campaign into the foundation of a more stable era.

Knight appears to match the profile Leeds are seeking. Known for his energy, discipline and tactical awareness, the 25-year-old has drawn comparisons to Roy Keane — praise that speaks more to his leadership presence and command in midfield than to sheer aggression.

The Republic of Ireland international attracted attention last season after playing a pivotal role in Bristol City’s surge to the Championship playoffs, their first appearance at that stage in 17 years. Despite speculation linking him with a move to the Premier League, no transfer materialised. Nevertheless, his performance levels have remained consistent.

This season, Knight has made 19 appearances as the Robins push for another playoff place. They currently sit just one point outside the top six, keeping their promotion hopes alive. His reliability and influence have once again captured the attention of clubs in the top division.

Knight’s contractual situation adds further intrigue. He is set to enter the final year of his deal, placing Bristol City in a delicate position. The club are keen to secure his future with an extension, but the midfielder has previously spoken about his desire to test himself in the Premier League. Should a concrete offer arrive, it could present a defining moment in his career.

For Leeds, the interest appears measured rather than speculative. Knight would bring leadership qualities, resilience and a strong competitive drive — attributes that are invaluable for a squad striving to re-establish consistency. His experience as a captain suggests he possesses the temperament required in a dressing room navigating pressure and uncertainty.

From the viewpoint of Leeds supporters, the reported pursuit of Knight generates cautious optimism. His combative style, relentless work rate and willingness to shoulder responsibility align with the traits fans admire. At times this season, Leeds have looked short of authority and energy in midfield, and the prospect of adding a player who thrives on intensity is naturally appealing.

However, the immediate focus remains survival. A six-point buffer with 12 fixtures remaining offers some breathing room, but there is little space for complacency. Supporters will want to see determination and clarity displayed on the pitch before turning their full attention to summer planning.

The comparison to Roy Keane inevitably elevates expectations. While Knight may not reach the heights of that iconic figure, the analogy highlights his competitive edge and commanding presence. Historically, Leeds have flourished when they have embraced players who embody grit and a willingness to fight for the badge.

If Leeds secure their Premier League status and act decisively in the transfer market, a move for Knight could represent a sign of improved strategic thinking. It would suggest a commitment to strengthening the squad with leaders who understand adversity and embrace responsibility.

Conversely, failure to remain in the top flight would render such ambitions largely theoretical. Interest in standout Championship performers would hold far less significance if Leeds were to drop down a division. For now, though, the report points toward a club attempting to balance immediate survival with forward-looking recruitment.

Supporters will hope that this is the beginning of a rebuild defined by resilience, character and identity. Whether Jason Knight ultimately becomes part of that project may depend as much on Leeds’ performances over the coming weeks as on any negotiations in the summer window.