Archie Gray has impressed during pre-season for Leeds United with the teen midfielder likely to be heavily involved in the 2023-24 season, which kicks off next week – and Junior Firpo has responded to his latest Instagram post.
Gray, 17, is yet to make his competitive debut for Leeds. But, he was an ever-present for the U21’s last year, playing a crucial role in helping them win the play-offs. He then impressed while on international duty with England’s U17’s.
Returning to Leeds this summer, he has featured in all four pre-season friendlies. He came on at half-time against Manchester United, started against Monaco, on at half-time against Nottingham Forest – and then started at Hearts.
With only Ethan Ampadu signed to replace Adam Forshaw, Weston McKennie and Marc Roca – and with Tyler Adams still injured – Gray is likely to be involved, along with Darko Gyabi and Ampadu, as options in the middle of the park.
So, after impressing in pre-season and looking more than likely to be a part of Daniel Farke’s senior plans next term, Gray took to Instagram – underlining his delight at his involvement and the hard work done by Leeds in pre-season.
Junior Firpo impressed by Leeds teenager Archie Gray during pre-season
It looks as if it could be the start of a breakthrough season for Gray. Even if he does not start regularly for Leeds, he will surely be in and out of the side, in what is a long and exhausting season. Gyabi and Ampadu could be first pick.
Jamie Shackleton is an option but Lew Bate seems some way down the pecking order. It will be interesting to see who Farke picks to partner with Ampadu this weekend. But, Firpo is impressed, commenting on Gray’s Instagram.
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