Exclusive: Whelan excited by ‘Fantastic’ early Leeds team news for Arsenal clash
Noel Whelan admitted he is excited to see Leeds United defender Robbie Gotts in action against Arsenal on Monday.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider correspondent Laura O’Leary, the ex-Whites attacker shared that he thought Gotts deserves to make his debut against the Gunners as he’s been patiently waiting for an opportunity.
Marcelo Bielsa released some early team news in his Leeds press conference by revealing the 20-year-old would replace Stuart Dallas in midfield and start the FA Cup clash with Mikel Arteta’s side.
Gotts has previously been named on the bench 29 times under Bielsa but has failed to rack up a single minute of first-team action so far.
Whelan believes Gotts’ debut is long overdue and revealed he is really pleased that the player gets to make his debut against Arsenal as he’ll get to play in a fantastic stadium.
When asked if he is excited to see Gotts face Arsenal as his debut seems to have been a long time coming, Whelan told Football Insider: “Yeah, he’s due this one.
“He’s been very very patient, not getting any game time, he’s been a good professional as a part of that squad and he’s going to get his opportunity away to the Arsenal.
“Which is fantastic as it’s a fantastic stadium to go and make you debut in, I’m really pleased for him.
“He deserves that, he’s been waiting a long time, and he’s a really neat tidy player so hopefully he’ll grasp this opportunity with both hands.”
The 20-year-old has been at Elland Road for the entirety of his professional career and is contracted to stay with the Championship club until 2022.
Gotts can be deployed as a right-back or as a right-sided midfielder and previously impressed for the club at U-23s level.
In other Leeds United news, Whelan reveals who he expects to lead the line against Arsenal on Monday.