St Mirren sign Crystal Palace midfielder Killian Phillips

Killian Phillips has returned to Scotland to join St Mirren from Premier League side Crystal Palace.

The 22-year-old midfielder, who made 13 appearances on loan at Aberdeen earlier this year, has joined on a season-long loan deal that includes an obligation to buy next summer.

The United States-born Republic of Ireland Under-21 international will be contracted to Saints until the summer of 2026, with the club holding an option to extend for a further year.

Phillips, whose move is subject to international clearance, told stmirren.com: “I’m buzzing. I spoke to the gaffer and he sold the club to me. He told me about all the players that have come through St Mirren and how he likes to develop players.

“I played here last season and the ground was rocking. I know how passionate the fans are up here and how good the standard is so it was something I wanted to play in again.

“I’m a box-to-box midfielder and I’ll always give 100 per cent. It’s been a long summer, but I’m delighted this deal is done and can’t wait to get going.”

Stephen Robinson revealed he has been a long-time admirer of Phillips.

“Killian is somebody we have looked at for a while,” the St Mirren boss said.

“He needs a home and somewhere to settle. He’s still a young boy finding his way in his career and we have to give him that home.

“He’ll improve with the coaching, but he has the physical attributes.

“He’s a big boy, he can run, and he’ll hopefully help provide goals in the team as well. With a couple of bumps and knocks in the midfield it’s important we strengthen our numbers in there.”

Phillips began his professional career with Irish side Drogheda United then made the move to Crystal Palace in January 2022 after a successful trial.

He also had loan spells with Shrewsbury and Wycombe.