Don Goodman believes it is only a matter of time until Archie Gray becomes a Premier League player, with or without Leeds United.
Gray has been one of Leeds’ main performers in their quest for an immediate return to the top level, starting 31 of their 35 league games.
Manchester United were recently linked with the teenager, but Goodman believes a bigger opportunity awaits him if he leaves Leeds.
“It’s a tough one because of the history and rivalry between the teams, which dates back many years,” Goodman told MOT Leeds News.
“As a Gray family member, I’m sure he’s well aware of the animosity between the two football clubs.
“Whether it comes down to that is unclear. If I’m being honest, he probably has better choices than Manchester United right now.”
Archie Gray is being considered for a transfer to Manchester United, according to Goodman. However, it’s important to consider the club’s status as one of the world’s biggest.
“He is flying, and I don’t think I’ve ever seen a 17-year-old play with such authority and class.
“When I was 17, I was playing five or six games until Trevor Cherry pulled me out because it was extremely draining. Trust me.
“At that age, you’re still a boy playing in a man’s world. It can be emotionally and physically exhausting.
“But he has just persevered and is of the highest level. It is critical for Leeds to return to the Premier League if they want to keep him. If not, he will finish up as a Premier League player for someone else.
“I think you can probably say it was only a matter of time before Kalvin Phillips left Leeds United, and the same applies here for Gray if Leeds are not in the Premier League in the next year or so.”
Leeds United are still on track for a Premier League comeback.
Gray’s ability was evident from the minute he made his senior debut against Cardiff City on the first weekend of the season.
Since then, the academy graduate has primarily played as a right-back, where he has elevated his performances to new heights.
With 2,769 minutes of Championship action this season, only Georginio Rutter (2,878) and Ethan Ampadu (3,150) have played more among Leeds’ outfielders.
As Goodman points out, Gray will undoubtedly end up in the Premier League before long. Ideally, that will be with Leeds next season; otherwise, the vultures will begin to circle.
