Kevin started his professional career at Watford before moving on to Sunderland in 1997. It was here that he established himself as a top striker, scoring 113 goals in his 6 years there. His 23 goals in 26 league games saw the Black Cats to the Premier League in 1999. His fine form continued the following season as he scored over 30 goals, earning the Premier League Golden Boot as well as the European Golden Shoe Award, a feat so Englishman has been able to replicate since. After being relegated Phillips was sold to Southampton for £3.25 million. A partnership with Peter Crouch wasn't enough to keep them up and Kevin left for Villa upon being relegated. He played a more limited role towards the end of his career with injuries playing a big part but still scored some important goals, most notably converting the penalty for Palace in the Play Off final against Watford to achieve promotion to the Premier League with 1-0 win.