Leeds United talent Alfie McCalmont set international challenge
Northern Ireland manager Ian Baraclough has poured praise on Leeds United Under-23s midfielder Alfie McCalmont after a superb season on loan in League Two.
McCalmont, 21, joined Oldham Athletic on loan in September, and he went on to score 10 goals in 39 appearances for the Latics in all competitions.
That form has alerted his international manager Baraclough, who called him up for Northern Ireland’s summer fixtures against Malta and Ukraine.
Speaking in a video posted on the official Twitter account of the Northern Ireland football team, Baraclough lauded McCalmont for leaving Leeds, temporarily at least, and set him a big goal.
“For the younger players, when I was in charge of the Under-21s I was desperate for them to go out, those that were playing Under-23 football, to go out and get some experience, Alfie has done that,” he said.
“It’s tough because when you’re in an environment like you are at Leeds United, Arsenal, Chelsea, you’re in a comfort zone.
“All of a sudden you go to a club like Oldham, and you haven’t got the best things.
“Alfie’s gone and done that, scored double figures this season, his first season in senior football, he can be proud of that and it gives him a platform to springboard from and he’ll go back to Leeds a much better and more rounded player.
“To come with us is reward for having done that and having a good season, I’ve seen his progress over the season and he’s certainly become a different player.
“I’m delighted to have him here and hopefully he can go and push on and try and be in this squad for the next few years.”
Back out the door?
It remains to be seen what happens next for McCalmont at club level after a hugely successful season on loan at Oldham.
His temporary club may have struggled, finishing 18th and just nine points ahead of the relegation zone, but his eight league goals were vital in firing them to safety.
He has proven himself at League Two level but he has plenty more to do in order to convince Leeds management that he has the capabilities to play for the Whites.
At 21, McCalmont will know time is ticking in that regard, and his next move could be vital.
A loan to League One or even the Championship seems like the next logical step next season before both parties reassess, although a recent report suggests the Whites hierarchy may have already made up their minds on the youngster.
According to Peterborough director of football Barry Fry the League One side rejected a swap deal from Leeds, who offered McCalmont as part of the negotiations. [Peterborough Today]
If the club are keen on offloading him then a strong showing for his international side over the next few weeks could bump up his price considerably and help to attract plenty more suitors.
In other Leeds United news, this Whites player fires warning to supporters ahead of summer transfer window.