(Credit: Imago)
(Credit: Imago)

Calvert-Lewin replacement and golden goalkeeper - Three Leeds U21s players with points to prove vs Fleetwood

Jacob Raw

Correspondent AUTHORITY Sports journalist with experience at the Northern Echo and Durham Cricket Club; Teesside University graduate. FOCUS Long-form opinion and deep-dive content across the Breaking Media network. THE INSIGHT Jacob utilises a network of club and industry contacts to deliver verified, analytical reporting. He provides in-depth opinion and insight to ensure fans get beyond the headlines and into the detail.

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Leeds have to hope their nine senior players reporting for international duty don't suffer any injuries whilst away.

Paraag Marathe has been hit with a PSR update, as Leeds now need to monitor their every financial decision for the January transfer window.

January may be crucial for Leeds, as Daniel Farke could need reinforcements if the Lilywhites are struggling come winter.

Leeds United's academy has provided stars like Archie Gray and Kalvin Phillips over the years, as the Under-21s are set for a clash with Fleetwood Town's senior team in the EFL Trophy on Tuesday night.

Three players in particular could send a statement to Farke.

Harry Gray at Leeds Ubi
Harry is the brother of Archie Gray. (Credit: Imago)

Harry Gray

Brother of Archie, Harry Gray could make his Premier League debut soon, as Dominic Calvert-Lewin's performances have concerned.

If Harry's brother is anything to go by, then he will be a top talent, as his record at youth level is astonishing.

  • Gray made the bench against Wolves in the Premier League
  • Scored a hat-trick against Scunthorpe's senior team this season
  • Harry made his Championship debut last season

Gray is still only 16 years of age, but has already established himself as one of the top talents at Leeds.

Harry has seven goals this campaign, and if he can perform well against a physical League Two outfit, then he may find himself playing in the Premier League soon.

Alfie Cresswell in yellow Leeds shirt
(Credit: Imago)

Alfie Cresswell

Another younger brother of a former Leeds academy product, Aflie Cresswell, is the sibling of Charlie Cresswell.

In a similar case to the Gray brothers, former Leeds player Charlie, has gone on to become a top player as he now starts regularly in France.

  • Alfie has played eight times this season
  • He has two goals from midfield
  • Cresswell is yet to make his professional debut

Alfie is a defensive midfielder who can also play at centre-back. At 18-year-old, Alfie is seen as a youngster with a bright future ahead of him.

Although it would be more difficult for him to break through, he certainly would do himself some favours with a good performance against Fleetwood.

Darryl Ombang

With Lucas Perri currently out injured, and Karl Darlow filling in, goalkeeper Darryl Ombang could force his way into the Leeds side with a big performance against Fleetwood.

Leeds have just sent their other youth goalkeeper, Rory Mahady, out on loan, as Ombang has a golden opportunity to impress.

Fleetwood will no doubt target the youthful Leeds team from set plays, and this is exactly where Ombang can show Farke that he is ready for senior football, as he is no doubt a talented shot-stopper.

The game proves a big opportunity for not just these three players, but the whole of the youth squad, as Farke will be keeping a close eye.

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