Former Leeds United midfielder Michael Brown has admitted that the Whites are in a difficult position when it comes to deciding what to do with the future of Alfie McCalmont.
The 20-year-old is extremely highly-rated at Elland Road, so much so that boss Marcelo Bielsa was believed to have stated last year that he sees the Northern Irish youngster as the perfect replacement for Kalvin Phillips as there was plenty of speculation surrounding his future.
However, Phillips stayed with Leeds and has starred once again to help the team to the top of the Championship prior to this enforced break. Therefore, McCalmont’s only minutes for the Yorkshire outfit this season have come in the EFL cup and there has been talk in the past that he could go out on loan to get some competitive action on a regular basis.
And, speaking to Football Insider, Brown indicated that would benefit the player, although he did acknowledge it’s a difficult decision for all parties to make.
Will Leeds United be playing in the Premier League next season?
Yes
No
“It’s limited opportunities with a side that are sat at the top of the league and you’re sat there thinking: ‘When can I get that chance?
“A loan depends on squad depth, position, finances – it will take time to account, ask what kind of minutes can they get him, what and where is he going to play? If they believe that the coaching in the squad environment will benefit him, then they’ll wait.
“It’s not straightforward, I personally think the more games you play as a youngster, you’re going to benefit. I did it and I know many who did who have gone on and done really well.”
Obviously, it’s going to be harder for McCalmont, and any other academy graduates, to break into the team if Leeds win promotion to the Premier League. And, that’s looking highly likely, with Bielsa’s men currently top of the table and holding a seven point cushion over third-placed Fulham with nine games scheduled to play.