’It’s my job’ - Nat Phillips channels inner Roy Keane after standout start at Albion

The defender, who became Ryan Mason’s first summer signing after taking the reins at West Brom, has quickly established himself as a fan favourite at the Hawthorns.

His first goal in Albion colours last Saturday sent the more than 3,400 travelling supporters at Stoke into raptures, and secured the Baggies’ their third win of the season - lifting them to second in the Championship into the international break.

Yet, even with the goal, the hype and post-match talk around Phillips after his match-winning performance was heavily centred around his defensive work - particularly his ability to clear danger with authority.

However, when asked about the attention he has received for his strong start, and notably his heading prowess, Phillips was keen to remain humble, emulating Manchester United legend-turned-pundit Roy Keane‘s iconic line.

“It's obviously nice, you want to be getting the fans on side and impressing the fans, so that's nice,” said the defender.

“But at the same time, it's your job. I sound a bit like Roy Keane, but it is your job. 

“So I expect that of myself, and I think that is the reason that I was brought here.”

Phillips already boasts 35 clearances this season, with some 14 made during last weekend’s hard-fought win in the Potteries, where he faced a stern test against Stoke striker and Manchester City loanee Divin Mubama.

The 28-year-old won all but one of his aerial duals. 

Asked if he has a magnet inside his head, Phillips laughed: “You're not the first person to have said that actually.

“No, it's one of my strengths, something I pride myself on, my ability in the air and aerial drills. So, I can contribute to the team with that.”

Phillips turned home midway through the first period to give Albion the lead over Stoke. The defender was perfectly placed to pick up the pieces after goalkeeper Viktor Johansson’s blunder.

“Yes, you could say that,” replied Phillips, after being asked if it has been a dream start to his Albion career. 

“I was quite surprised the ball ended up going in the back of the net, and the clean sheet was a really nice feeling as well.

“It's been a good start, long may that continue.”

Speaking after the win, Baggies boss Ryan Mason praised Phillips’ impact, saying he sees the importance of having someone of Phillips’ “character and quality”, describing the defender as a “man-mountain”.

The Baggies boss said: “In this league you need men that lead by example. It is no secret that we lost some leaders in the last six months and through the window, and that is one of the things that we were keen to replace.

“He has come in and been incredible, he really stood up for the team (against Stoke). He led by example.”

Signed from Liverpool for an initial £1 million, Phillips is certainly enjoying life at his new club.

The defender added: “I've been living in the area for maybe six weeks now. The transfer got done nice and early, which helped. 

“I have got experience in doing that, so I feel like I've settled pretty quickly. It's a great dressing room with lots of good personalities. It was a very warm welcome when I arrived at the club, so it's been nice and easy.”