Leeds United manager Steve Evans has told the Yorkshire Post he is optimistic about signing on loan midfielder Liam Bridcutt in a permanent deal.

The former Rotherham manager witnessed the on loan Sunderland midfielder put in another dominant display, as his Leeds side ran away 2-1 winners at Ewood Park at the weekend.

Bridcutt moved to Elland Road in November last year on a loan deal, and his form saw that move extended in January to run through until the end of the season. Bridcutt has impressed during his time with the club, and Steve Evans made no secret of his opinion on the player, saying:

“I think Liam’s very aware of what I think of him. He’s very aware of what this football club thinks of him. And the one thing I’m very aware of is that Liam loves playing for Leeds United. He never hides that."

"Liam’s a top-quality player, he leads by example in his determination to win a game."

It is a positive statement from Evans towards a player who has been out of favour for his Premier League parent club, and is probably just the sort of thing he wants to hear while he makes up his mind about his future.

Bridcutt, who made his name at Brighton before securing a move to Sunderland, will no doubt be keen to resolve his future as soon as possible.

His parent club are embroiled in a relegation battle in the Premier League, and it may well be that he lines up against Leeds next season should he not make the move permanent.

Leeds sit 13th in the table at minute, and take on Huddersfield in a local derby at Elland Road next time out.

Leeds fans, what do you think to this news? Pleased? How good is Bridcutt and would he be a good signing? Let us know in the comments!