Phillips stays with Sunderland, says Wilkinson

SUNDERLAND boss Howard Wilkinson yesterday moved to dispel fears that Kevin Phillips is ready to throw in the towel on Wearside.

The 29-year-old England international made a gesture as he left the pitch after being substituted during Monday night's abject 3-0 home defeat by Manchester City which had been interpreted by some as his parting shot. However, Wilkinson yesterday revealed that Phillips sought him out immediately after the game and again yesterday to explain his actions and insist he remains firmly on board.

"Kevin came to see me and said it was just a shrug of disappointment and said he wished he had not done it," Wilkinson said.