Bailey Peacock-Farrell has stressed he is good enough to be Leeds United’s first choice goalkeeper heading into next season after an exceptional breakthrough.  

The 21-year-old goalkeeper started the season as Leeds’ third choice, with Felix Wiedwald and Andy Lonergan battling for the No. 1 spot at Elland Road. Peacock-Farrell spent time away from Leeds on-loan outside the Football League, but a break never came his way.

Wiedwald and Lonergan have struggled with form and injuries respectively over the course of 2018, which opened the door for Paul Heckingbottom to hand Peacock-Farrell the gloves when Wolverhampton Wanderers visited Elland Road.

Since then, the Northern Irish youth international has kept his place in the side, making eight consecutive appearances in goal. After impressing most recently in a 1-0 defeat to Aston Villa, Peacock-Farrell has issued a strong message to Heckingbottom, insisting he is ready to be No. 1 next season.

He told the Yorkshire Evening Post: “I don’t feel out of depth and I’m enjoying the moment.

“In my opinion I can do it. But it’s up to the gaffer for next season, who he decides to play. It’s far away.

“Obviously there’s room for improvement in all my performances but I’m happy to keep the shirt and keep the number one spot. Hopefully I can finish the season and play the rest of the games.”

Peacock-Farrell, who produced a Man of the Match display, spared Heckingbottom’s side from huge embarrassment at Villa Park on Friday evening. The youngster pulled off a number of high-class saves to further enhance his reputation.

Heckingbottom will be expected to put his faith in the goalkeeper once again at the weekend, when Leeds face Barnsley at Elland Road.

The Verdict  

Peacock-Farrell has done well so far, but there is still doubt to whether he should be Leeds’ first choice heading into next season.

Leeds need to forget this season and try to rebuild and challenge for promotion next year.

Ultimately, a more experienced goalkeeper, who Peacock-Farrell can learn from, will probably be needed to do that.

It’s a tricky decision for Leeds to make, but Peacock-Farrell is likely to be No. 2 next year.

Leeds fans… Let us know your thoughts!