Archie Gray has been superb since breaking into the Leeds United side whether that be in midfield or at right-back and Dan James reckons he will be in the Championship Team of the Year this term.
Gray, 17, has featured in 28 of our 30 games this season – starting 26 times. Initially, playing in midfield but the combination of Glen Kamara and Ethan Ampadu has seen Gray move to the right of defence.
The England U20 has been stunning. A player Jermaine Beckford has described as both “incredible” and “phenomenal” this season – and a player that had been attracting interest from England’s big guns.
Tottenham had been keeping an eye, while Manchester United and Liverpool were keen. That was until Gray put pen to paper on a contract until 2028 – a decision which was applauded by Simon Grayson.
Speaking to The EFL podcast, James was full of praise for the “brilliant” star. He predicted that Gray could be in the Championship Team of the Year, and compared the Leeds teen to that of Aaron Ramsey.
“I had my first experience of Archie at 15. His movement off the ball reminded me of Aaron Ramsey off the ball, runs in behind. Strong, run all day, still growing into his body. He’s matured. He’s still child-like.
“But he’s 17. That helps him, not phased. He’s got no fear, he’s brilliant. I wouldn’t be surprised if he’s Team of the Year in a position he hadn’t played in. We have a lot of conversations, he’s eager to learn.”
Dan James reckons Archie Gray could be in Championship TOTY
This is a player that had not played a single minute of senior football before the opening day, when we drew 2-2 with Cardiff City – at least, competitively. But also a player expected to make his debut earlier.
Injury prevented a debut under Jesse Marsch and now he is fully fit again, quickly becoming a key player at Leeds. The Whites are being linked with loads of right-backs – but Gray will surely remain first choice.
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