Pundit thrilled by what he’s heard about Cresswell from Leeds training ground
Noel Whelan has hailed Charlie Cresswell’s “great attitude” after breaking in the Leeds United first team.
The former Whites hitman, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 19-year-old has got the “hunger” to succeed in the Premier League.
Speaking to the Yorkshire Evening Post, former Leeds United youth coach Darren Arnott shared some insight about Cresswell’s progression into the first team – praising his “character, mentality and personality”.
He revealed Cresswell asserted himself among the senior players and was unapologetic for his full-blooded approach to training.
The centre-back made his Whites debut last month with a battling performance in the 2-1 loss against West Ham.
Cresswell, who signed a new contract at the club in the summer, earned his first England under-21 call-up in August.
Whelan insisted the youngster will be recognised by manager Marcelo Bielsa for his exceptional training performances.
“He’s got the hunger. He trains as he plays,” he told Football Insider‘s Russell Edge.
“He’s got to really test the opposition, test Patrick Bamford – that’s what he needs, that healthy opposition in training.
“You can’t hold anything back, that’s the only way you’re going to improve.
“Never swerve away from who you are, that’s a great attitude to have.
“He’s trying to break into this Leeds United side. To do that he’s got to put in great performances in training against first-teamers.
“He will be recognised by the manager. I love the fact that the players are being told to train as they play because that’s the best way to be.”
In other news, pundit drops verdict on Bielsa quitting Leeds United.