Speaking to The York Press, Bailey Peacock-Farrell has stated that he has set his sights on earning a place in Northern Ireland’s World Cup squad after securing a loan move away from Leeds United.  

Peacock-Farrell is highly thought of at Elland Road having come through Leeds’ academy, but has found first-team opportunities difficult to come by in recent years.

The 20-year-old goalkeeper has made just one senior appearance for the Whites, which came under Steve Evans during the 2015/16 campaign, when he helped Leeds to a 1-1 draw with Queens Park Rangers.

Despite featuring as a substitute on occasion and agreeing a new three-year deal with Leeds over the summer, Peacock-Farrell has left Elland Road in search of regular first-team football, joining York City on-loan.

Peacock-Farrell has previously earned international recognition from Northern Ireland, and after securing a temporary move away from Elland Road, the goalkeeper is hoping first-team football will give him the opportunity to make the World Cup squad in the summer of 2018, he said:

“Hopefully, we (Northern Ireland) can make it another special, big summer and, if I get games here with York and, maybe something potentially during the January window, I can push to get in the senior squad again.”

Northern Ireland have not yet qualified for the World Cup, and will have to progress through a two-leg play-off for a place in Russia next summer.

Peacock-Farrell could make his York debut against Leamington this afternoon.

The Verdict  

It is refreshing to see a young player leaving his comfort zone in search of regular football.

Peacock-Farrell has lofty ambitions, and if he can make Northern Ireland’s senior squad again at the age of 20, it will be a major achievement for the goalkeeper.

Leeds’ supporters will be keeping a watchful eye on the goalkeeper’s progress in York, with the general feel at Elland Road that Peacock-Farrell could be the club’s long-term first choice.

Leeds fans… Let us know your thoughts!

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