Nicola’s most despicable act yet as she targets Phil in the worst possible way in EastEnders

Nicola Mitchell (Laura Doddington) made a concerning discovery about Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) in yesterday’s episode of EastEnders.

It’s been known for a little while that the much-loved character has been struggling with loneliness.

Over the years, Phil has dealt with many family d.e.a.t.h.s including that of mum Peggy (Barbara Windsor). More recently, he’s been faced with Ben Mitchell (Max Bowden) going to prison, Louise (Tilly Keeper) moving away, as well as his relationship with Kat Slater (Jessie Wallace) ending.

The storyline was picked up again in tonight’s instalment. After Nicola paid Phil a visit to give him the picture of Peggy, she discovered his kitchen in a complete state. Empty takeaway boxes were on the side, washing up needed to be sorted, it looked as though Phil was squatting in his own home.

An angry Phil tried to send Nicola away by shouting at her, but that wasn’t going to work. When she eventually returned to Peggy’s, she decided to tell Sharon Watts (Letitia Dean) about her discovery.

A worried Sharon immediately asked Nicola if she spotted any alcohol at Phil’s, to which she said no.

Heading over to see her ex, Sharon was broken to discover Phil had taken framed photos of his family down. He said he didn’t need a reminder of who he’s lost.

Phil became tearful and tried to open up to Sharon, but they kept getting distracted as a result of her phone pinging texts through. With that, Phil took it as a sign to pretend things aren’t as bad as they look.

While this was happening, Nicola and Teddy (Roland Manookian) were sharing a moment in the office at Peggy’s. When Sharon returned, Teddy jumped up and left with his new love interest, fuelling Nicola’s jealousy.

A plan developing, Nicola grabbed a bottle of whisky and arrived back at Phil’s house. There, she spoke about how everyone needs someone in their life, and how she thinks Sharon might be his person.

Clearly taking advantage and recognising Phil’s vulnerable state, Nicola then presented him with the bottle of alcohol. She pretended she had no idea about his addiction, said Phil might use it as company, and then left.

The bottle remained on the table as the episode drew to a close, but will Phil relapse and open it?