'Parky' as he is known by teammates and fans alike played in his testimonial at the end of last season, the current Reading side played against an England XI. However, it was not merely a farewell appearance, Phil will play on into his eleventh year this year in the heart of the Reading midfield.
Yet the day when the tough tackling midfielder decides to call it a day can surely not be far away. When he finally hangs up his boots the midfielder is likely to take up a coaching role with the Royals, having worked tirelessly on various coaching badges in past summers. Therefore, he shows an real interest in some of the up and coming prospects in the Royals camp.
Phil told readingfc.co.uk: "It’s good for the youngsters to mix in with the first team. Adam Theo playing alongside Adi Viveash was good experience for him, listening to how Viv talks and helps organise the team, they can learn a lot from him.
"I try and help the young lads on the pitch. I’ve played a lot of games, I think I can use my experience to help them and hopefully a few of them have got a chance of becoming first-team players."