Pundit excited by ‘brilliant’ Leeds starlet who’s ‘just like Raphinha’
Noel Whelan has insisted Joe Gelhardt will “love” the pressure of leading the line for Leeds United in the continued absence of Patrick Bamford.
The former Whites striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 19-year-old’s ability to get fans off their seats is very similar to that of Raphinha.
Gelhardt came off the bench for Leeds’ clash against Newcastle today (22 January) after recovering from an ankle injury.
Speaking on Friday (21 January) and quoted by Leeds Live, manager Marcelo Bielsa insisted the youngster is “taking steps” towards becoming an assured Premier League player.
Whelan suggested the former Wigan talent is “a bit more special” than the other players breaking through at Leeds United at present.
“I think he can handle that expectation and that pressure,” he told Football Insider‘s Russell Edge.
“He loves it, I know I did when I was coming through.
“There’s pressure on every game, whether it’s Premier League or under-23 football – you have to perform in every game.
“He will want to be the man out there on the field who shoulders that pressure and relishes it. I think he’s got that.
“He’s a bit more special than the other players who have come through at Leeds United. He’s got that special something about him which adds that little bit extra.
“He believes in himself and his ability, he’s a very confident, brilliant young player. He’s just like Raphinha in that regard – he can get you off your seat and make the difference in games.”
Gelhardt made his 10th appearance of the season against Newcastle.
The youngster joined Leeds United from Wigan in August 2020.
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