Leeds United employee issues ‘huge’ Joe Gelhardt claim after manager’s reveal
Noel Whelan has heaped praise on the “special” Joe Gelhardt after Leeds United’s draw with Southampton.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the Whites ambassador claimed the 19-year-old “is going to be a huge part of the club” in light of recent performances.
Gelhardt was a second-half substitute on Saturday as Leeds edged closer to safety with a 1-1 draw with Southampton at Elland Road.
As quoted by Leeds Live (3 April), Jesse Marsch revealed the teenage striker didn’t start the game because he missed a day and a half of preparation after producing a false positive Covid result.
Whelan backed the club’s “patient” approach with Gelhardt.
“Everybody loves Joe Gelhardt,” he told Football Insider‘s Russell Edge.
“We love the direct style of play that he has. He can create something out of nothing. He plays with no fear as you do at that age. He is taking on the pressure and enjoying it.
“When you go back to the Norwich game, you see the desire and energy that he brings.
“He is going to be a huge part of this club for a long time. This is why they are being very patient with him. He is being nurtured in the right way. The under-23s has been good for him.
“Now is the time that we are going to see more of him. He has something special and everybody sees that. He scares defenders and is a great weapon to have.”
In other news, a pundit has claimed Leeds United may have already found their Raphinha replacement after source’s update.