Philips Set To Sign

“I want to stay and I expect that’s what will happen. Hopefully it will be sorted soon.”

News of Phillips’s intention to remain at Vetch Field is a major boost for manager John Hollins as he plots an immediate return to Division Two. Former trainee Phillips was a revelation in 15 appearances at the back end of last season.

The youngster’s tenacity and commitment were recognised by Welsh under-21 boss Jimmy Shoulder, who gave him his first cap last spring. Swansea are keen to sort out the futures of their six-strong band of out-of-contract youngsters.

Defenders Leigh De-Vulgt and Chris Todd have both indicated they hope to remain Swans, as has utility man Andrew Mumford. Winger Stuart Roberts and Bari Morgan are still thinking over their options. As yet, none has signed a new deal, and club general manager Mike Lewis has hinted that players should put pen to paper soon or face missing out altogether.

“The only concern, for both the players and the club, is that we are now at the stage where we are setting the budget for next season in concrete,” he said.

“And there is a very real possibility that if they take too long to decide, the pot may be empty by the time they make their mind up.

“It is a player’s prerogative to delay any decision until the end of his contract.

“Indeed, it is commonplace for a player to weigh up any offers on the table and not respond to their club until the end of June. “This was the case with Matthew Bound last year, so it should not be taken for granted that because someone does not sign up straight away, they will not do so eventually.”

The suggestion is that if players do not commit themselves reasonably soon, the club will begin to look elsewhere for new faces to replace them.

Meanwhile, two more pre-season fixtures have been announced. Swansea will Dr Martens League side Newport County away on July 23rd, then make the short trip to Port Talbot four days later.