Charlie Crew, a Leeds United midfielder, was poised to begin first-team training this month before an injury setback ended his hopes at Thorp Arch.
Archie Gray is currently the most talked-about young talent coming out of Elland Road this season, which is unsurprising given how fantastic he has been.
However, there are many more who may be trying to follow in the teenager’s footsteps and disrupt Daniel Farke’s intentions.
Daniel Farke hints that Charlie Crew caught his eye at Leeds.
During a news conference last week, Farke was questioned about the young players coming through at Thorp Arch who he might be keeping an eye on.
He didn’t mention names, but Charlie Crew appeared to be the player he was referring to (via the YEP):
“Obviously, we are still keeping an eye on the progress, and there are one or two individuals who have piqued our interest, but we are being cautious about pursuing them. But I don’t want to get into too much detail about names since they will carry too much responsibility.
“Yes, one of them who caught our notice is currently injured. Maybe you can guess, but I don’t want to reveal too many identities in public.”
Crew, 17, is a Welsh U21 international who meets Farke’s description after missing a PL2 game against Leicester City due to a recent setback, which is not thought to be severe.
Crew was in line to participate in Leeds’ first-team training.
The YEP has now given further information about the young midfielder’s positive impact in the development setup since joining from Cardiff City in 2022.
They claim that before to Crew’s injury (since recovered), he was ready to step into first-team training under Farke.
“The YEP also understands Crew had been scheduled to participate in first-team training recently before a minor injury ruled him out.”
Crew has previously participated in senior training sessions with the Wales national team, joining up with three of Leeds’ important players: Ethan Ampadu, Joe Rodon, and Connor Roberts.
Crew is definitely one to watch at Elland Road.
It takes a lot for Farke to come out at a news conference and say how impressed he is with Crew, especially since he can’t keep him under wraps totally.
He’s been quite impressive in the U21s this season, and it’s only a matter of time before he makes the main squad.
Given the enormity of our upcoming games, it may be premature to discuss Crew’s debut, but pre-season could be the first opportunity to watch him in a senior setting.
