Leeds United employee issues ‘massive’ Sonny Perkins claim after new development
Noel Whelan has suggested Sonny Perkins is in line for a first-team berth at Leeds United if he can continue his free-scoring form at youth level.
The former Whites striker and club ambassador, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the 18-year-old isn’t at the club to “make up the numbers” despite his tender age.
Perkins, who was playing alongside Leeds United teammate Darko Gyabi, scored on his England Under-19 debut against Montenegro as Simon Rusk’s side began their European Championships defence in qualifying.
The young striker has also scored six goals in five outings for the Whites’ Under-21 side in Premier League 2 competition.
Perkins joined Leeds United from West Ham in the summer window after leaving the London Stadium in search of first-team football.
As per Leeds Live (22 September), he has been training with Jesse Marsch’s first team at Thorp Arch as senior involvement inches closer.
Whelan suggested Marsch will take a chance on Perkins if he can maintain his form in front of goal.
He told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “This is why you bring in these youngsters from other clubs.
“You’re just hoping they hit the ground running, which he obviously has. He’s made a massive impact – settled in very quickly and found his feet.
“He’s also finding the back of the net and even taking that confidence into international games as well.
“This is what it’s all about. Even if he’s 18 – he won’t be there to make up the numbers.
“He wants to be in the mind’s eye of the manager and put himself into contention for a first-team spot.
“He looks sharp, confident – and he’s on the right path. The only way you can be noticed as a striker is if you’re scoring goals.”
In other news, pundit claims Jack Harrison is ready to quit Leeds United for double-your-money deal.