Kalvin Phillips’ bad luck continues as controversial red card played role in denying Ipswich a first Premier League win of the season

If Kalvin Phillips won the lottery, he would probably lose his winning ticket. The former England midfielder just cannot catch a break.

It suddenly feels a long time ago that Phillips and Declan Rice were bossing the Three Lions midfield at the Euros in 2021, because it has all been downhill for him since.

There was a failed £45million move to Manchester City in July 2022 and a disastrous loan to West Ham in January. 

Now, at Ipswich, his red card denied them a first win since their return to the Premier League. 

The Tractor Boys were leading through Leif Davis when Phillips took a bad touch and went lunging in on Ricardo Pereira to receive a second yellow card.

It looked harsh from referee Tim Robinson as Phillips tried to pull out at the last minute.

But when your team are leading and you are on a booking, you need to play it safe.

Jordan Ayew equalised against the 10 men in stoppage time and Phillips was left to reflect on another low point in a truly awful 12 months for him.

Ipswich wanted a penalty for what they thought was a foul on Conor Chaplin just before Phillips saw red, but it is 10 games without a win now for Kieran McKenna’s struggling side.

Phillips has had a miserable run of luck since playing a key role at the Euros in 2021

Defender Cameron Burgess said: ‘It was harsh, but that’s football. It does feel like a loss, but morale is strong. I don’t think we’re in a desperate state.

‘We’re still learning, but we’re in a lot of games. We’re just desperate for that first win.’