Phil Hay has told Leeds United fans on Twitter that Archie Gray has been withdrawn from England’s U19 squad for the international break – due to concerns over his fitness. Gray has starred for Leeds so far.
The 17-year-old has broken into the Leeds side after the club were relegated and has immediately made himself first choice. Gray has started all seven games. Jermaine Beckford said he’s been “phenomenal”.
On Saturday, he lasted 88 minutes before coming off. His form has seen him get the call-up to England’s U19 squad for the first time. Two games; they face Germany on Wednesday, Switzerland on Saturday.
But, having got the call-up, Hay has delivered an update over the weekend. He says that Gray will not be travelling with the 19’s, as we have withdrawn him from the squad – over concerns regarding his fitness.
Hay says Gray withdrawn from England U19 squad due to fitness
From a selfish point of a view, as Leeds fans – this is great news. Gray can now rest after an explosive start to the season, starting all seven matches. But, it is also a worry, that his fitness is under question.
Clearly, he is a naturally athletic, fit lad. But, he has had injury issues and for a body that is not used to the minutes and the hard work it is being put through, injury is a worry for Leeds and boss Daniel Farke.
So, it is great that Gray is not playing for the 19’s, from a Leeds perspective. But it is a concern that his fitness is already coming under the microscope. Hopefully, it is just a precaution for our wonderkid.
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