Nat Phillips returns to Liverpool after unsuccessful Celtic loan spell

Nat Phillips has returned to Liverpool after an unsuccessful loan spell at Celtic. The Englishman joined as defensive cover in September on a short term deal but failed to impress as he came into the squad to assist with Brendan Rodgers’ backline.

In a report by Sun Sport, it was confirmed that the deal had expired and Phillips had returned to Merseyside. Despite having an option to extend, fans had been keen to see Phillips return to Liverpool, owing to the levels of performances.

16th September 2023 Celtic Park, Celtic versus Dundee Amadou Bakayoko of Dundee takes on Nat Phillips of Celtic Photo ActionPlus David Young

Since arriving from Anfield, Phillips has made eight appearances and was poor in his cameo against Hibs as well as being at fault versus Killie. The big defender has come in despite not playing a lot of games and has not impressed. The 26-year-old will likely be loaned out again in the January window as his opportunities in the first team under Jurgen Klopp will be even slimmer than they were at Celtic.

Brendan has Liam Scales, Maik Nawrocki and the injured duo of Cameron Carter-Vickers and Stephen Welsh, who will be fit after the January break with Gustaf Lagerbielke able to deputise in the meantime. The Scottish Champions will likely move on Lagerbielke in the January window as well as Yuki Kobayashi, who is expected to return to the J-League.

The Celtic manager will want to trim his squad and replace those departing with quality that can improve the overall quality of his team.