England midfielder Kalvin Phillips said he wants to “add the quality I know I’m capable of” to West Ham after joining them on loan from Manchester City for the rest of the season.
There is no option to buy included in the 28-year-old’s switch.
Phillips signed a six-year contract when he joined City from Leeds United in a £45m deal in July 2022.
“There’s so much to look forward to in the second half of the season. I can’t wait to be part of it,” he said.
“There’s an unbelievable group here and if I can come in and add the quality that I know I’m capable of, I’m sure we can give the West Ham fans plenty to be excited about between now and the end of the season.”
Read Also: Inaki Williams knocks Barcelona out of Copa del Rey less than 48 hours after Ghana’s AFCON exit
Phillips made just two starts and 16 total Premier League appearances in his 18 months at City as he struggled for game time under manager Pep Guardiola.
A number of other clubs, including Newcastle United, Crystal Palace and Juventus, had also expressed an interest in him.
The loan signing will come as a boost to Hammers boss David Moyes, who has been eager to strengthen a squad weakened by a succession of injuries.
Lucas Paqueta and Michail Antonio are both out for an extended period, while Mexico midfielder Edson Alvarez missed the FA Cup defeat at Championship side Bristol City with a calf problem.
West Ham are sixth in the Premier League and have reached the Europa League knockout rounds which get under way in March.
“We are really pleased to bring a player of Kalvin’s quality to West Ham United,” said Moyes.
“We’ve been big admirers of him for a long time and we believe that he will add strength and competition to our squad.
“Kalvin is an England international midfielder, with proven Premier League experience. We’re excited to welcome him into the group and look forward to working with him.”
Phillips, who has 31 England caps and remains a member of Gareth Southgate’s squad, is likely to view the move as an opportunity to get regular playing time and boost his chances of playing at this summer’s European Championship in Germany.
He leaves City having scored just one goal – against Red Star Belgrade in the Champions League.
Phillips made 21 appearances in all competitions last season as City won the Premier League, FA Cup and their first Champions League title to complete a historic Treble.
Sources: BBC Sport
