Paul Heckingbottom has hinted that more of Leeds United’s academy players could be handed a first-team opportunity between now and the end of the season.  

A difficult start to 2018 has left Leeds with nothing to play for ahead of the final eight matches of the season, with Heckingbottom already looking to his academy during his short time at Elland Road.

Bailey Peacock-Farrell has started Leeds’ last three fixtures in goal, whilst Tom Pearce made his senior debut at left-back in the 2-1 defeat to Sheffield Wednesday last weekend.

Speaking to West Yorkshire Sport about the possibility of more academy players making the step up between now and the end of the season, Heckingbottom said:

Plenty of Leeds’ under-23 side are knocking on the door following a midweek victory over Ipswich Town, with Sam Dalby one player in particular to impress, scoring twice in the 3-2 victory.

Leeds’ first-team are not in action this weekend due to the international break, but return next weekend when they welcome Bolton Wanderers to Elland Road on Friday.

The Whites currently sit 14th in the Championship table.

The Verdict

Leeds’ season has fizzled out into nothingness, and going into the final eight fixtures of the season, there is nothing but pride to play for.

Heckingbottom’s first-team squad have let him down, and it seems like a good time to try a few academy players out between now and the end of the season.

However, as Heckingbottom says, those players need to prove themselves before earning a chance. 

Leeds fans… Let us know your thoughts!