Although the man Gareth Southgate has trusted to start each of the Three Lions' games in the tournament lost his ever-present tag, removed in the second half with the game won to protect him from a yellow card and suspension for the semis, Phillips can be satisfied with his display once again in the 4-0 victory.
There's no doubt it was not as sparkling as his performance in the tournament opener against Croatia, or as impressive as what he did against the world-class German midfield, but Phillips did what was necessary, adding energy, control and discipline to the centre of the pitch alongside Declan Rice who was also in good form yet again.
"Those two sitting midfielders have been magnificent in most games," said Alan Shearer.
"That allows players ahead of them to go and express themselves. Whether it's Grealish who comes on, Sancho, Harry Kane, Sterling, I don't think that matters because [Southgate has] got so many options and they're all in form.
The scoreline when Phillips went off, to be replaced by 18-year-old Borussia Dortmund midfielder Jude Bellingham, was 4-0 to Southgate's men.
Two goals from captain Harry Kane, Jordan Henderson's first international goal and a thumping Harry Maguire header made it a thrilling but comfortable night for England, who will now face Denmark in the semi-finals. Italy and Spain face off on the other side of the draw.
This is how the nation's newspapers and broadcasters rated Phillips' display, in his 13th international appearance since a September 2020 debut.
7. The Independent - 7
Mark Critchley wrote: "With Rice, provided the platform for the performance. A little suspect defensively at times, as Ukraine enjoyed space down his side during the first half, but recovered to control."
8. Express - 7
Matthew Dunn: "Usual energetic display tidying up whenever England lost possession. And avoided the yellow card."
9. Daily Star - 7
"Always aware of danger. Always closing people down. Always finding space and giving out instructions. Another impressive performance."
10. Daily Mail - 7.5
"Didn't see much of the ball but his energy in central midfield was key for England. Knew he couldn't come steaming out of the box due to the weather but showed maturity in tough conditions."
11. Liverpool Echo - 7
Theo Squires said: "Not his most influential performance but it didn’t need to be as England took control in Rome. With a booking to his name, withdrawn early after 65 minutes."
12. Eurosport - 7
"While many debated whether Phillips should even be included in England’s squad for this tournament, the Leeds midfielder has made himself undroppable with a series of composed performances. This was another one."