Jermaine Beckford has told Sky Sports News (19/04) that he would like Mateo Joseph to be handed a chance up front for Leeds United against Fulham – urging Javi Gracia to play with two up top when Leeds travel to London.
Joseph, 19, has been in wonderful form for the club’s second string this season. Clocking up 20 games, in which he has captained the U21 side on occasion, he has scored 16 goals. It has seen him break into the senior side this term.
Indeed, Joseph – who won his first England youth cap with the U20’s during the last international break – has played six times this season. But, his involvement under Gracia has been up and down since the Spaniard arrived at Leeds.
He was an unused sub against Southampton, and in the FA Cup against Fulham. Then, he came off the bench and earned 20 minutes against Chelsea in the 1-0 loss. But since, he has failed to make the matchday Leeds squad.
It is probably a result of Leeds having Patrick Bamford back, Rodrigo fit again and the January signing of Georginio Rutter. Bamford was missing on Monday, but Joseph was still not included. Beckford wants him to start at Fulham.
“I don’t mind 4-4-2. A centre-forward myself, I always enjoyed having two players up top. Mateo Joesph is a very, very good forward. He knows where the net is. Little bit inexperienced. But I would like to see him given a chance.”
Beckford wants Joseph to get Leeds chance against Fulham on Saturday
The chances of Gracia turning to a teenage striker with just six appearances, when he is likely to play with one up top and has Rodrigo and Rutter available – is unlikely. But, Joseph is certainly firing for the 21’s, scoring 16 times.
He is a serious talent. But, the step up from the 21’s to Premier League football is vast. Right now, or ahead of the summer, it is clear Joseph needs to go on loan and get game time. Perhaps, in League One or the Championship.
