Phillips sets his sights on Europe

Phillips believes that is the target which must be achieved to maintain the exciting momentum of one of the Premiership's most feverishly supported clubs.

And the prolific striker insists his best form is returning as he bids to help Sunderland surpass the sticking point of seventh place - their final position in each of the past two campaigns.

The ambitions of club and player are inextricably linked. Phillips, aiming for England again after last season's dip in form, scored the winner in Sunderland's opening-day victory over Ipswich, watched by the Stadium of Light's regular 47,000 customers. More importantly, he showed all the zest and fire that first launched him, albeit fleetingly, on to the international stage under Kevin Keegan. It was the sort of dynamic display - absolutely magnificent in the view of manager Peter Reid - that could yet propel him into Sven Goran Eriksson's World Cup plans going into the vital qualifier against Germany in 12 days.

Phillips, preferring to let Reid champion his immediate cause, takes the long-term view in backing himself to win Eriksson's approval over the course of a 'massive' season for Sunderland. But it would be no surprise if the England boss made a personal check on him at Fulham tomorrow. Phillips, whose 18 goals last season was a disappointing return by his own high standards, said last night: 'All I can do is produce the goods for Sunderland and then hopefully I'll get my chance. 'I feel better this year. Last summer I missed the whole of pre-season and didn't get my full sharpness back throughout the season. This time I've had a good pre-season and it's showing in my fitness and confidence.

'On my way to the ground on Saturday I was thinking of a win and a goal. It was a penalty, but a goal is a goal. I could have had a few more, but I'll settle for the one.

'This is a massive year for us and we need to qualify for Europe to attract players again next year. 'We've had two great seasons and we've added to the squad. Now I think we are capable of getting into Europe.'

Phillips, demonstrating a commitment that has been falsely questioned in the past, believes Reid has made some astute captures, including Swiss right back Bernt Haas and his new strike partner, France international Lilian Laslandes.

He said: 'Lilian is a great thinker. He's not the fastest but he has a quick brain and an eye for goal. 'You don't play for the French national side if you haven't got something about you. He's a quality player and at times we worked well together. I'm looking forward to the rest of the season playing with him.'

Niall Quinn is vying for a place with Laslandes, but Phillips added: 'More importantly, Lilian gives us good competition up front. Quinny has the utmost respect of us all and whether he plays or comes off the bench, it's great to have a quality player like him.'