VfB Stuttgart are re-signing Liverpool defender Nat Phillips.

The Daily Mail says the Reds have sent Phillips back to Stuttgart on loan for the rest of the season.

Phillips spent the first half of the season on loan at the Bundesliga II club after joining them with the intention of staying for the entire campaign, but was recalled last month.

He rejoined Liverpool during the winter break in Germany due to a defensive injury crisis at Anfield. He played from the start as Liverpool beat Everton 1-0 in the FA Cup.

Phillips has now returned to Stuttgart until the end of the season.