After tracking the lad for two years, Boro’ finally got their man in 2024; Daniel Phillips announced as our fourth summer signing. A central defensive midfielder by trade, it’s fair to say that he cuts an imposing figure in the middle of the park. Athletic, powerful and boasting a long-lasting engine – many could suggest those are stand-out traits that defined the Stevenage FC brand. Practically speaking, however, all the indications were that Phillips would be an important addition as Boro’ prepared for a highly competitive 2024-5 League One campaign.

Upon his arrival, boss Alex Revell underlined this point – while also revealing our long-term interest in signing Phillips. It was interest that admittedly started under previous manager Steve Evans. But clearly a keenness to sign the player was not restricted to the Scotsman; Revs identifying Phillips as a major component in his plans for us going forward as far as our midfield is concerned. Revs commented: “Dan brings new qualities to central midfield. We tracked him ever since he left Watford two years ago. It’s taken a while, but we are delighted to get him over the line.”

Phillips also arrived here as a fully-fledged Trinidad and Tobago international; debuting in a 3-0 win against a Guyana side that featured future Boro’ teammate Terence Vancooten.

Daniel Phillips: Before Boro’

For Phillips, his footballing career started not too far away from the Lamex as it goes. Watford were his first senior team; turning pro at Vicarage Road in 2019. This had come after he originally started out as a youth player at Chelsea. While at the Hornets, he debut came in September 2020 – but not before he gained his first taste of senior game time on loan at Hemel Hempstead Town. Another loan spell – this time with Gillingham in 2021 – started to establish his credentials at a higher level; something that earned him a move to Scottish Premier League side St Johnstone in summer 2022.