Pundit excited by Cresswell and tips pass master for Leeds first XI promotion
Noel Whelan has insisted that Leeds United starlet Charlie Cresswell is “waiting in the wings” for an opportunity in the first team.
The former Whites striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 19-year-old is “unlucky” to find himself on the fringes of the team.
Cresswell, along with fellow young defender Leo Hjelde, was named among the Leeds United substitutes as they drew against Wolves 1-1 on Saturday, with the Yorkshire club’s squad stretched thin by injuries.
The youngster made his league bow in last month’s 2-1 defeat against West Ham, playing 90 minutes alongside stalwart Liam Cooper.
He impressed with his aerial presence against Hammers striker Michail Antonio.
The defender’s ball-playing skills also earned him plaudits, with the youngster enjoying the most touches and successful passes during the league clash (WhoScored).
The Preston-born ace earned his first call-up to the England U21 squad in August, but is yet to feature.
Whelan insisted Cresswell will have made an indelible mark in the thoughts of manager Marcelo Bielsa.
“He’s a credit to the club,” he told Football Insider‘s Russell Edge.
“He’s very unlucky not to be in the side. It’s only because we’ve got internationals and quality in front of him – but he’s left himself very much in the thoughts of Bielsa.
“If some of those first-teamers aren’t performing, he’s waiting in the wings to take the opportunity.
“It doesn’t matter how young he is. He’s shown that he can produce against some of the best in the Premier League.”
Leeds United have won just once this season – a 1-0 win over Watford earlier this month.
The Whites sit just three points clear of the Premier League drop zone.
In other news, pundit delivers verdict on Bielsa quitting Leeds United.