Whelan tells Greenwood to snub Leeds exit offers – he’s set for extended first-team run
Noel Whelan has told Sam Greenwood to snub a summer move and stay at Leeds United – as he may be given an extended first-team run.
The former Whites hitman, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insists staying with the Under 23’s would be more beneficial than a loan move.
Leeds Live claim the striker is attracting admirers ahead of the transfer window opening.
Greenwood, 19, was recently nominated for the Premier League 2’s Player of the Season award.
He scored 12 goals in 18 games as Leeds Under 23s romped to the title.
His senior bow came last season when he was a second half substitute as Leeds lost to Crawley in the FA Cup.
Whelan claims Greenwood could be given an extended first team chance in the domestic cups next season.
“I think he would benefit from staying with the Under 23s,” Whelan told Football Insider assistant editor Russell Edge.
“I still think he needs to learn his trade. He’s still very young and getting used to his surroundings at Leeds.
“Another season here with us would benefit him. Especially now the Under 23s are playing in a higher division against better sides.
“That will progress him. He could be used this year, possibly in the cup competitions.
“There is always an opportunity for younger players to go out there and prove themselves.”
Greenwood sat on a Premier League bench for the first time in April’s clash with Manchester United.
Fellow youngster Crysencio Summerville was also an unused sub in the 0-0 draw.
In other news, Leeds United tipped to launch new bid after EFL swap offer knocked back.