The Athletic's Phil Hay has revealed that Leeds United star Kalvin Phillips has a "chance of being fit" ahead of this weekend's Premier League clash against Southampton after providing an exciting four-word update.

What's the story?

The midfielder was a late withdrawal from the England squad for Gareth Southgate's side's World Cup qualifiers, with medical staff deeming him unfit after the Whites' 1-0 win over Watford.

And now, Hay has revealed where things stand with Phillips and whether he could make it for Saturday afternoon's clash against the Saints.

In the full tweet, Hay said: "Bielsa speaking at his pre-Southampton presser. Bamford is out of Saturday's game with his ankle injury. Phillips (calf) has a chance of being fit for it."

Encouraging signs for Leeds

Last season saw the Whites struggle without their midfield lynchpin, winning just two out of nine Premier League games that he missed, and that saw Darren Bent speak about the kind of importance of the England international.

He said: "It is a unique role, and you think who else can they get in that position who can do the job effectively. The answer to that is no one. He’s that good of a player that it’s hard to replace him."

As per WhoScored, Phillips ranks second for tackles made per game in the top-flight this season for Leeds, while unsurprisingly, he features in the top three for average passes per game - the kind of tough-tackling play-maker that the Whites rely so heavily on.

Hay's update that the England star is in the frame for Saturday's game against Southampton is sure to have fans buzzing, therefore, especially when you consider their side only picked up their first win of the new Premier League season just before the international break.

Meanwhile, Noel Whelan has reacted to this Phil Hay reveal...