Leeds United news as ‘secret agent’ looks to set up Archie Gray switch already
Liam Cooper has admitted that he is acting as a “secret agent” to try and persuade Leeds United gem Archie Gray to play for the Scotland national team.
The 17-year-old has impressed in his breakthrough season at Elland Road, shining for Daniel Farke’s side at both right-back and in the heart of midfield. His good form has seen him called up to the England Under-18s squad and captain the side.
But Leeds teammate Cooper has revealed that he is trying to tap up the teenager to change his allegiance to join Steve Clarke’s side in the future, admitting that “you never know” what could happen in the future.
As quoted by the Daily Record (13 November) he said: “I’m still trying to tap him up, don’t worry about that. No, I’ve been a bit of a secret agent. He knows I’ll always be there. He’s such a young boy and his family are steeped in Scottish and Leeds history.
“There is definitely a bit of sentiment there but he’s flying at the minute with England. He’s captain of the Under-18s, which is a bit of a stinker for us. But I’ll keep nipping away and hopefully, I can break him down.
“Have I spoke to the manager about him? No, not really. Me and John Carver and the boys have a bit of craic. They know how it is. It’s tough. Especially when the boy is playing so well and is captain of England at the minute. But you never know.”
Wait and see
You would imagine Gray will be keen to try his hand at having a full international career with England first, given his success at youth level with the Three Lions and the pathway to the first team demonstrated by Jude Bellingham.
Considering he is the under-18’s captain, the FA and the coaches in the organisation must rate the teenager incredibly highly, which would suggest that they expect him to go on and have a career playing for England at the highest level.
But the prospect of playing international football sooner for Scotland may be tempting for Gray, especially considering the family ties he has to the country. A push from Liam Cooper may be just what he needs to make the shift of allegiance.
For Leeds United, they would more than likely prefer that their latest academy gem continues to play youth international football, given the impressive workload he already faces. Adding senior international football to that mix already would be a hell of a lot for a 17-year-old to deal with in his first real season of professional football.
In other Leeds United news, the Whites face an unknown test after the international break after Rotherham United sacked Matt Taylor