Clinton Morrison has suggested that he has known for some time that one ‘exceptional’ Leeds United youngster has the potential to go right to the very top.
It feels odd to describe Ethan Ampadu as a youngster. He has been such an important signing for the Whites, coming in permanently from Chelsea in the summer.
Ampadu made his professional debut more than seven years ago. And he is closing in on a half century of caps for Wales. Nevertheless, he only turned 23 earlier this season.
Leeds star Ethan Ampadu has potential to reach the top
Ampadu has been so influential for Daniel Farke’s side. He began the season as the fulcrum of the side in midfield. And he has since thrived at centre-back alongside Joe Rodon.
Ampadu and Rodon have not lost at centre-back together. And the former has worn the captain’s armband for much of the campaign. Leeds have certainly been vindicated for spending a decent sum on him last year.
But Clinton Morrison is clearly not at all surprised by his form this season. The retired striker was at Exeter City when Ampadu started to come into the first-team fold. And he told Sky Sports (broadcast on 8/3; 19:32), that he always felt that he had the potential to reach the top.
“I played with him at Exeter. He came and trained. He was still at school. Let me tell you, outstanding player. I looked at him and said this guy can go wherever he wants to be. He likes to be in holding midfield or he can play centre-half like he’s playing now,” he said.
“Listen, he’s started the season with Leeds in midfield and was playing ever so well. The best thing for him when he went to Chelsea was then to go down and go play at Leeds where he can play week-in, week-out. And that’s what he’s doing.
“He’s still young, 23. He’s an exceptional player. Captain there now, and he leads by example.”
Welshman has found his home
Ampadu has already made more league appearances for Leeds than any other club he has played for in his career. Hopefully, he feels that he has found a home at Elland Road where he can remain for years to come.
Leeds have obviously a number of Welsh players in their side now, which would have helped. But Farke has also built the team around Ampadu. Ultimately, he is one of the first names on the team sheet.
And when Liam Cooper does move on, it would be no surprise to see Ampadu given the captaincy permanently.
The frightening thing is that he could improve considerably in the years to come.
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