Phil Edwards

Early career

Edwards started his career at Wigan Athletic, signing a professional contract at the age of 18. He was loaned to Morecambe for one month in September 2004 to gain first-team experience, making a single appearance as a substitute in a 2–2 draw against Northwich Victoria. He returned to Wigan in October 2004, where he featured regularly for the reserve team but did not make any first-team appearances.

Accrington Stanley

Edwards signed for Accrington Stanley on loan in October 2005, making his debut in a 3–3 Football League Trophy draw against Rotherham United. Accrington won each of Edwards' first six matches, conceding only two goals, which helped the club move to the top of the Conference National. His loan was extended until the end of the 2005–06 season in November 2005, and after regular appearances, Edwards signed permanently for Accrington on 12 January 2006. He was part of the team that secured promotion to the Football League with a 1–0 win over Woking on 15 April 2006, making 27 appearances that season. Edwards scored his first professional goal in a 3–3 home draw with Shrewsbury Town on 2 December 2006. His final appearance of the 2006–07 season was in a 3–2 home victory over Macclesfield Town, a result that ensured the club's Football League status for the following year. He made 39 appearances in all competitions that season, scoring once. Edwards committed to Accrington for the 2007–08 season by signing a one-year contract extension…

Edwards was deployed in a number of positions throughout his career and his versatility to play across all defensive positions was highlighted as one of his strengths. At Stevenage, he was also used in a defensive midfield role, providing protection in front of the defence. He was a regular penalty taker at Accrington, scoring 16 goals from the penalty spot. Edwards was praised for his strong work ethic both in training and during matches.

Born in Bootle, Merseyside, Edwards is a lifelong supporter of Everton.

Accrington Stanley

Conference National: 2005–06 Burton Albion

Football League One second-place promotion: 2015–16 Football League Two: 2014–15 Oxford United

EFL Trophy runner-up: 2016–17 Individual

Accrington Stanley Player of the Season: 2007–08, 2009–10 PFA Team of the Year: 2014–15 League Two