Phillips set to display magical touch
The Observer continues to feature some of the leading players ahead of the friendly international game between the Reggae Boyz and Costa Rica at the National Stadium on Sunday, September 5. Today we take a look at utility player Demar Phillips.
Demar Phillips, also known as ‘Peel Head’, was born on September 23, 1983, in Kingston. He currently plays as a midfielder for Norwegian club Aalesund FK.
After starting his youth career at York United in the St Thomas Parish League and Eastern Confederation Super League, Phillips made the move to Waterhouse Football Club, starting with their U-21 team before becoming a senior team regular.
At Waterhouse he was a vital asset to the club.
With good reference from Jamaican teammate Ricardo Fuller to boss Tony Pulis, Phillips signed a three-year contract for Stoke City in August 2007 from Waterhouse for an undisclosed fee.
Demar made his first-team debut on November 10, 2007 against Sheffield United. He made only two appearances for Stoke. However, he struggled to force his way into the Premier side’s first-team squad with the likes of Danny Higginbottom and Danny Pugh ahead of him, and at the end of the transfer window in January 2009 he joined Norwegian side Aalesund FK (the same club as Khari Stephenson at the time) on a free transfer.
Phillips made his Aalesund-debut on March 15, 2009 playing at left-back against Tromso. He played in the Norwegian Cup final, which Aalesund won on penalties. He scored one of the penalties. By winning the Norwegian Cup, his club Aalesunds got the opportunity to play in the Europa League versus Motherwell of the Scottish Premier League (SPL).
Phillips went up against fellow uncapped Jamaican midfielder Chris Humphrey in that game.
Phillips has appeared for the Reggae Boyz a total of 37 times, scoring five goals. He scored his first goal for Jamaica in a 5-1 win over St.Vincent.
He was part of Jamaica’s Caribbean Cup squad in late 2008 and the 2009 CONCACAF Gold Cup squad. ‘Peal Head’ is a favourite of many Jamaican fans as he is very skilful and has a bag of tricks against anyone.
He is truly indeed a key asset for the Reggae Boyz. His magical touch is very rare and he always gives 100 per cent whenever he plays for Jamaica.