An early signing by George Curtis and John Sillett, Phillips was a useful player to have in any squad due to his versatility, as he could play on either flank both defensively and offensively.
As at Manchester City, Phillips was a strong industrious midfielder that could drop back into a defensive position if need be, but it was his long range striking ability which often caught the eye.
Memorable goals include a 25-yard strike during a 4–1 defeat of QPR in 86/87 and the following season, going to then champions Everton, and scoring a pile-driver, again from outside the box, in a 2–1 win at Goodison Park.
He was part of the Norwich side that finished third in the inaugural Premiership season 1992–93, but left the club in the summer of 1993 after a contract dispute, joining Nottingham Forest.
[4] David's son Aaron Phillips is a professional footballer on the books of Kidderminster having previously played for Coventry City and had a loan spell at Nuneaton Town.