Noel Whelan

Mon 15 July 2019 8:00, UK

EXCLUSIVE

Leeds United youngster Alfie McCalmont might need “a little bit of protection” before he is thrown into the cut and thrust of the first team, according to Noel Whelan.

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Leeds striker and lifelong Whites fan says that there is every chance of the 19-year-old making his breakthrough next season but that things must not be rushed.

McCalmont caught the eye of supporters last week with his performance in the 5-0 victory against York City, the club’s first pre-season friendly of the summer.

Despite his impressive display, Whelan suggested keeping the back from too much pressure too soon, pointing to the manner in which fellow midfielder Kalvin Phillips came under fire from the supporters early in his Leeds career.

“Right now, this is experimenting, giving these young players the chance to see what they can do and if they can perform with the first team,”  Whelan told Football Insider.

“It’s going to be fantastic experience no matter what comes of this young man. He’s there, he’s already shone, he’s already put himself into the fans’ thoughts as well so he’s doing his part.

“You can never say never because we didn’t have a huge squad last season. We saw the introduction of younger players and that’s the sort of thing Marcelo Bielsa wants, he puts his trust in them and that’s why we have the academy and that’s why it’s so successful.

“Kalvin got a lot of flak from the fans when he first started, maybe a little bit of protection on this young man, introductions from the bench, in certain situations where we’re comfortably winning a game where we can introduce him.”

Phillips has emerged as a favourite of manager Marcelo Bielsa since the Argentine’s arrival, operating not only as a defensive midfielder but as a makeshift centre back when needed.

Meanwhile, McCalmont is yet to make his competitive first-team debut at Elland Road, with not even an unused substitute outing to his name for the senior side.