Archie Gray shares Leeds United aspirations in ‘unbelievable’ James Milner comparison
Archie Gray has responded to being asked to play in different roles at Leeds United this season, admitting he would prefer to play in midfield but understands the importance of being adaptable.
He used former Leeds, Liverpool and Manchester City man James Milner as a comparison, with his versatility lending itself to the longevity of his game, and Gray claimed it would be unbelievable to reach the levels Milner has.
Daniel Farke has experimented with Gray at right-back for several games this season, but the 17-year-old understands it will help him to develop and grow as a player.
“It’s good to learn different perspectives of the game,” Gray told The Guardian [8 December], “Playing right-back is allowing me to understand the game even more for when I go back into midfield. You see players like James Milner playing different positions every game.
“If I become anywhere near as good as him it would be unbelievable. I think my best position will be as a box-to-box midfielder but, as the game is changing, you have to be increasingly adaptable.”
Humble, confident and understanding
At just 17 years old, Gray is already speaking and understanding his role as a model professional with the attitude of somebody twice his age. It would be easy to get sucked in by the flashy lifestyle of a footballer, but Gray remains humble and wants to work hard.
Recognising the progress he can make in his career, with the humbleness to admit he has a long way to go, and the willingness to try new things is a fantastic sign for any young player, and if he keeps this attitude and mentality it will serve him well in years to come.
The comparison with James Milner is a fair one, with his versatility and experience in the game something that will be required of Gray, but at 17, he has a lot of room to grow and flourish as a more accomplished player than he is at present.
The level of trust given to Gray by Farke this season is a clear sign of how highly-regarded he is at Elland Road, and with the strong mentality he possesses, he should remain important for some time to come.
In other Leeds United news, an exit-linked star has detailed behind-the-scenes talks with his agent.