Leeds United told to complete deal for striker amid Joe Gelhardt verdict – pundit
Alan Hutton has claimed Leeds United should sign a new striker as Joe Gelhardt is not ready to lead the line in Patrick Bamford’s absence.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Tottenham and Aston Villa defender said the Whites need more options up top this sesaon.
Gelhardt, 20, was on the bench as Leeds beat Chelsea 3-0 on Sunday (21 August).
He was subbed on for the final seven minutes at Elland Road.
Patrick Bamford was omitted from the squad after picking up an adductor injury in the 2-2 draw with Southampton last Saturday (13 August).
As quoted by Leeds Live (20 August), the striker said he “feels alright” but is still getting used to playing regular football again.
When asked if Gelhardt could step up and lead the Leeds line while Bamford is sidelined, Hutton told Football Insider: “I think it all depends on what the conversations are between player and manager.
“Obviously Bamford would’ve been first choice.
“Gelhardt came in last season and did himself justice. Is he ready at 20 years of age to go and lead the line for Leeds week in week out? He could be in the future yes. I think at the moment it’s difficult, I think it’s best from him to learn, be introduced like he has been in previous seasons.
“I think it’s a lot to ask one so young – you need to keep us up, you need to score the goals. I think they need to add someone and keep him as well as long as he’s happy with that and his development is going in the right way. If not, it could be time to go on loan to get the minutes he needs.“
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