By Saikat Mandal

24th Nov, 2021 | 1:40pm

Liam Cooper drools over three Leeds United young talents

Leeds United skipper Liam Cooper has showered heaps of praise on three young talents at the club.

Cooper has suggested that he sees plenty of potential in youngsters like Charlie Cresswell, Pascal Struijk and Joe Gelhardt.

The 30-year-old also feels that these players are natural leaders that are coming out from the academy ranks at the moment.

“Charlie [Cresswell] is definitely right up there,” said Cooper, as quoted by Yorkshire Evening Post.

“Pascal [Struijk] has got it in him. He’s not the loudest but he sets a good example. There’s Joffy (Joe Gelhardt).

“They’ve all got a lot of character and they’re all going to go a very long way with Leeds. The potential is there. It’s just consistency at that age.”

Leaders

Cooper feels Cresswell “definitely” has the talent to be a leader.

The 19-year-old has made three appearances in all competitions, including a Premier League start in the 2-1 defeat against West Ham.

Struijk is another player mentioned by Cooper who sets “good examples”. The Dutchman has been tremendous under Marcelo Bielsa. Last season, he made a strong impact playing in central defence as also in central midfield.

The 22-year-old may not be vocal like other defenders but he sets examples with his performance. This is another important attribute of a good leader.

Finally, he speaks about Gelhardt. The 19-year-old youngster made his senior debut for Leeds last weekend against Tottenham, and he is highly rated.

He is a fearless young talent who adds tremendous energy upfront. He is a confident young player and Cooper must have seen something special in him.

There’s no doubt that these players are highly talented, and all they need now is consistency. Bielsa will hand them opportunities, and they must make the best use of them.

In other Leeds United news, the Whites are ready to make major January signings with unexpected deals to force action