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Dean Jones makes long-term prediction on ‘fantastic’ Archie Gray, Leeds United can ‘build around’ him
Leeds United will be able to rely upon Archie Gray to “fill any role adequately” in the long term, according to journalist Dean Jones.
The 17-year-old has made 17 appearances in all competitions for the Whites this season, playing in midfield and defence.
He is, however, being monitored by several Premier League clubs, including Manchester City and Liverpool [90min, 14 November].
“I think he’s a really nice player to have within the setup, especially given that he’s so young and so versatile,” Jones told GIVEMESPORT. “He is a fantastic player for Leeds to have and to build around for the future.
“I’m not sure that Trent Alexander-Arnold comparisons are that helpful. I’m sure that he is taking them with a pinch of salt. But obviously, it’s trendy to be a fullback who moves into the middle and tries to play that sort of role. And if that’s what’s expected of him, then he will just try to carry that out as well as he possibly can.
“But yeah, I think long term, this is the player that Leeds know that they can rely on to fill any role adequately. Better than adequately, to be honest, because he’s got a real promising future ahead of him.”
Top player
Gray may be only 17 years old, but the teenager is really impressing under Leeds manager Daniel Farke. He is one of many players that the man in the dugout has turned to this season when the times have got tough due to issues like injury.
Along with his usual defensive midfield role, the youngster has been utilised at right-back, playing 15 times in the league and twice in the League Cup.
And his displays both home and away from Elland Road will delight his manager, although at the same time Farke will be worried about losing him amid the reported interest from some of England’s biggest clubs.
Gray certainly has the potential to be a Premier League star, but perhaps at this stage of his career it is best to stay in the Championship and continue building his profile.
A Premier League debut could, of course, come with his current club, with Leeds currently sitting third in the Championship table as they seek promotion back to the big time.
In other Leeds United news, journalist Alan Nixon has raged at the latest news from Premier League club Everton, with a Whites legal claim issued.