Daniel Farke must keep Leeds United ace Archie Gray grounded as England future mooted
Daniel Farke has had to deal with several challenging issues during his brief spell as Leeds United manager so far.
That ranges from the exits of many senior players to unfortunate injuries to key men, but amid all the madness at Elland Road, one youngster has been thriving.
Midfield star Archie Gray has enjoyed a superb season so far, with Farke clearly trusting the 17-year-old given how he has featured in all 13 of the club’s matches so far.
The teenager has even shone in two different positions, with his usual midfield role swapped for a place at right-back against Bristol City on Saturday (7 October).
His displays for the Whites have caught the eye of Farke, and also of England Under-19 manager Simon Rusk, who has named Gray in his latest squad for their three matches this month.
It is the latest call-up in his international career, with the teenager having already lined out for the England Under-16 and Under-17 sides.
And it doesn’t look like ending there, with a place in the senior squad not too far away as far as Sky Sports News reporter Tim Thornton is concerned.
“One player certainly worth looking out for is Archie Gray,” Thornton said, as quoted by Sky Sports. “He’s already in the Leeds United first team and he’s still only 17.
“There has been a lot of hype around him at Elland Road for several years, and if he continues to progress, he could be in the mix for a place in England’s midfield for 2028.”
Farke will be proud of Gray’s rapid progression, but the German also has a responsibility to keep the youngster grounded.
The 17-year-old is destined for great things at club and international level, but he needs a manager to ensure both feet stay on the ground for the time being.
By resting him at times for Leeds, Farke has already proven he can manage the youngster’s physical needs, with the same approach now needed for Gray’s mental needs.
In other Leeds United news, a Whites player has reacted to Eden Hazard’s retirement announcement with a small tribute.