Bielsa tipped to fast-track Bate into Leeds XI v Chelsea after injury latest – Whelan
Noel Whelan has claimed Lewis Bate is “champing at the bit” to make his Leeds United debut against Chelsea after Kalvin Phillips’ injury blow.
The former Leeds striker and club ambassador, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, suggested the 19-year-old could get his first game time at Stamford Bridge on Saturday (11 December).
As confirmed on Thursday (9 December), Phillips suffered a hamstring injury against Brentford, although Marcelo Bielsa did not elaborate on the severity of the blow at his press conference.
Leeds also have concerns over Patrick Bamford, Rodrigo and Liam Cooper, while Pascal Struijk and Robin Koch have only recently recovered from their own issues.
With Bielsa potentially looking at the under-23s squad to fill his bench, Whelan suggested Bate could be in line to feature against the club he left this summer.
Asked if Phillips’ absence could see Bate make his debut against Chelsea, Whelan told Football Insider’s Russell Edge: “Well, that is exactly what I was thinking. Absolutely.
“I think he has shown that maturity. He has come on leaps and bounds with the under-23s. This is why we’ve gone in and taken Lewis Bate away and brought him into the pathway. For that strength in depth.
“We’ve seen the likes of Gelhardt flourish when he has come on and taken the opportunity. It’s just another step forward in their progression. This is what happens when you have under-23s.
“Sometimes it takes injuries to break into a first team. Whether he has played or not, it’s a confidence booster for him.
“He’ll be sitting there champing at the bit, thinking: ‘Give me an opportunity, get me on.’
“If someone’s not up to scratch or playing to their full potential, he’s somebody that knows the ground. He has played on the ground, feels comfortable there.
“He’ll have a point to prove, no doubt about that. He’ll be sitting there, twitching away, looking to try and get on that field, I’m sure.”
Bate was an unused substitute for the 1-1 draw against Leicester City.
He has been a mainstay for the under-23s, with 15 appearances under his belt.
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