Leeds United boss Paul Heckingbottom will surely have admitted to himself that the play-offs are beyond the reach of his side this season, with a summer rebuild to challenge for a long-awaited Premier League return scheduled for the coming months.

The Whites have struggled following the appointment of the former Barnsley boss, but fans will remain patient and allow the young boss time before passing judgement, with the opening weeks of the new campaign likely to provide a clear indication over the 40-year-old’s suitability for the job.

Director of football Victor Orta and chairman Andrea Radrizzani backed former boss Thomas Christiansen last year with the funds to significantly improve his squad and despite the Dane’s failings and questionable choices, the money was put on the table.

Hecky will hope for the same and must beg the pair for these stars…

Millwall have quietly conducted their business in south London this season following their promotion via the play-offs, with Neil Harris’ side a serious outside contender to nab a second consecutive year of end of season football.

Hutchinson has emerged as a star at the den following a string of impressive performances, with the 27-year-old easily one of the most consistent central defenders in the division.

Leeds could be at risk of losing talisman Pontus Jansson in the summer given the Swede has enjoyed another solid campaign, with Hutchinson a prime candidate to replace the towering defender.

Hutchinson has played in every game of the Lions’ campaign and must be on Hecky’s shortlist.

The Australian international was once nominated for the Balon D’or for his form with the national side and is likely to leave mid-table QPR in the coming months given the fact that he has consistently performed to a high standard following his switch from Swindon Town.

The 25-year-old box-to-box midfielder has bagged an impressive five goals and three assists in only thirty-four league starts this term, with his form helping to keep Ian Holloway’s side out of trouble following a tricky twelve months which almost saw the R’s relegated last time out.

Luongo enjoyed a Premier League education through the academy at Tottenham Hotspur, but a switch north could be on the cards if Hecky identifies the player as the one to bring much-needed quality to a Whites midfield that has been left wanting on far too many occasions.

Ameobi’s contract is up in the summer with a scramble expected for his signature when his deal becomes void and Hecky must ensure he is at the front of the pack in the race for the exciting winger.

The former Newcastle United man has impressed at Bolton this season, scoring four and assisting once, with his all-round play contributing towards Phil Parkinson’s side survival bid which has gained pace in the past few weeks.

At 25-years-old Ameobi is waiting to be handed an opportunity at a big club and if Leeds harbour sincere promotion aspirations ahead of the new season, adding the hard-working, explosive wide man to their squad on a free transfer could emerge as one of the signings of the season.

Leeds fans, thoughts?