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Jamie Shackleton: ‘Exciting things to come’ from Leeds United youngster Archie Gray
Jamie Shackleton was full of praise for fellow Leeds United midfielder Archie Gray, and suggested that there are “exciting things to come” from the 16-year-old.
Gray is widely known as one of Leeds United’s most promising stars, and the Elland Road wonderkid is knocking on the door of Jesse Marsch’s first team squad after enjoying a breakthrough season in Yorkshire.
Having sat on the bench six times for the first team last season, Gray was given his chance to impress in pre-season, and he received raving reviews for his 72-minute cameo in the 4-0 victory over Blackpool in July.
But while Gray seems to be making quite an impression on both the fanbase and Marsch, he has also caught the eye of his teammates, with Shackleton singling him out for praise.
Speaking to Leeds Live, Shackleton was full of compliments for his fellow midfielder.
“I’ve seen a fair bit of Archie,” said Shackleton. “I trained with him last year and this year I played in the game against Blackpool – he pretty much ran the show.
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“We were playing against Championship midfielders that day and at 16 he was giving them the run around and getting stuck in as well.
“There’s a lot more exciting things to come from him, simply because he’s so good at his age and because of how many years he’s got to improve.”
On the verge of a breakthrough
While Leeds won’t be back in action until early October, there’s still plenty of football to be played this season in what is bound to be a packed schedule for Marsch’s side.
The squad depth has undoubtedly improved this summer, but there will still be plenty of chances for the club’s youth to shine throughout the season, and Gray will be the first in line.
It’s evident that Gray is highly valued at Elland Road, and upcoming cup fixtures such as the Carabao Cup clash against Wolves in November will be a perfect opportunity for him to impress.
Despite hardly stepping foot on the pitch, Gray has already become a fan favourite in Leeds, and he’ll be roared on to success by the Elland Road faithful when given his chance in the side.
After all, following the departure of Kalvin Phillips this summer, Leeds will need a new local hero to cheer on.
In other Leeds United news, a sidelined star was ready to make his return against Manchester United this weekend.