I like Phillips, but he's not irreplaceable IMO. I think we've lost better midfielders over the last decade and been OK. ( McCann, Millar, Muzz, Craig for example). Yes he will be a loss, but one we can cover with the right recruitment. A prime time Chris Millar would make a huge difference to this team - someone who's able to hold the ball and make the right pass at the right time.
*I'm not including Scougall here @RandomGuy