Whelan suggests Leeds fans will be thrilled after injury update ahead of Arsenal clash
Noel Whelan has tipped Joe Gelhardt to get a run of games in the Leeds United starting XI after Dan James’ injury blow.
The former Leeds striker and club ambassador, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted fans are “desperate” to see the 19-year-old get more game time.
Speaking at his press conference on Thursday (16 December), Marcelo Bielsa confirmed James is out with a muscle injury.
As detailed by Football Insider on Friday (17 December), only eight first-teamers took part in training on Thursday.
Gelhardt replaced James at half time in the defeat to Man City.
Whelan suggested the Wales international’s absence could have a silver lining for the Leeds youngster.
Whelan told Football Insider’s Russell Edge: “I think when you’re looking both sides of the side of the coin, it’s disappointing to have another international player out. It’s another one for the injury list.
“But at the same time, you then look at the young man that can step in for Dan James, which is Joe Gelhardt. So that’s the positives.
“I think everybody wants to see a good run of games for him, rather than in the side, out the side and in the side again.
“This might give him the opportunity to start from the beginning, put in a good display with that tantalising direct football that he has.
“We’re all desperate to see more of him. The glimpses we’ve seen have been fantastic. So it’s another opportunity to showcase his skills.”
Gelhardt has made one start in five Premier League appearances for Leeds to date.
He scored his first senior goal in the 3-2 defeat to Chelsea.
In other news, Football Insider injury expert reveals when Patrick Bamford will be back for Leeds United.