Phil Bardsley

Phil Bardsley is a defender, born on 28 June 1985 in Salford, England.

In 1994 Phil joined the academy of Manchester United, where he had to cruise through all youth squads so that to gain playing practice and learn football in all its minutest details. Besides, Bardsley participated in the FA Youth Cup with his junior teams. During nine years, the footballer managed to climb up the academy ladder and came closer to a senior start in 2003.

The same year Phil penned a contract with Manchester United and officially became a professional player of the club. However, the defender managed to make only several appearances for ‘The Red Devils’ before being sent on a six-month loan to Royal Antwerp, where he took part in six games. In 2006 Bardsley completed a move on loan first to Burnley, then to Scottish side Rangers.

In 2007 the footballer sealed a loan deal with Aston Villa and featured in 13 games of the club. Later Phil moved to Sheffield United on a temporary deal as well and made 16 appearances during his spell. In 2008 the defender’s services were secured on permanent basis by Sunderland. Bardsley clinched a place in the starting line-up and took part in almost all matches in the 2008/2009 season. During six years, Phil featured in 200 games and kicked 11 goals for the club.

In the summer 2014 Bardsley switched for Stoke City.

From 2010, Bardsley was capped 12 times for the Scotland national team.