David Woods

Fri 8 January 2021 6:30, UK

Yorkshire Evening Post journalist Graham Smyth has said that he is “desperate” to see Leeds United Under-23 star Joe Gelhardt make his first-team bow. 

Talking on the latest episode of the Inside Elland Road podcast, Smyth said, “It’s all about balance. Bielsa has to balance the FA Cup hopes of a club who should have a good run.

“There’s no reason why Leeds can’t target a place in the semi-final or beyond, they’ve given problems to every team they’ve faced this season.

“I’m desperate to see Joe Gelhardt in first-team action. He’s got the frame, the strength for it. You can’t go too young but I think a nice balance between first team and a few youngsters wouldn’t go amiss.

“The line-up should reflect that this is a tough game and the fact that Leeds should be attacking this competition.”

Will Gelhardt start against Crawley on Sunday?

Gelhardt signed for Wigan for what was said to be a bargain fee of around £900,000, which could rise with add-ons.

It’s very possible that he starts on Sunday, and both he and Sam Greenwood have been name-checked recently by Marcelo Bielsa.

But there’s a debate raging between fans as to whether Bielsa will name a strong team or rest first-team stars and play the Under-23s.

The truth will probably lie somewhere between the two.

Bielsa has talked of having respect for all competitions in the past and won’t name a completely inexperienced side.

But surely Patrick Bamford could do with a rest?

Having Bamford on the bench and starting either Gelhardt or Greenwood up front would make a lot of sense to us.

However, even if Bamford does start then we think either one of Gelhardt and Greenwood, or both, to come on when the game is won.

Smyth actually thinks that Bamford will start the game but as he’s predicted a 4-1 win, we doubt the striker finishes the game on the pitch if that is the case.

In other Leeds United news, Leeds must reignite move for explosive £30m-rated striker after dramatic development