OPINION
Of all the young talent that Leeds United have in their academy ranks, one player has begun to stand out more than any other: Jack Clarke.
The 17-year-old forward underlined his vast potential with another masterful performance for the Under-23s on Friday, registering two assists and a goal in a 5-0 thrashing of Bristol City.
Clarke was everywhere for the Whites, and his goal – a stunning side-foot volley into the top corner – was the pick of the lot, bringing the entirety of the small crowd to their feet.
Many Leeds fans took to Twitter after the game to rave about Clarke’s display, with many calling for him to be given a shot in the first-team soon.
And, while these calls are in some ways justified considering his form and his potential, manager Marcelo Bielsa must break these fans’ hearts by holding off on such a move.
Clarke is still just 17 years old, and has plenty of time left in his development.
His form for the Under-23s shows that he is comfortable and happy among that squad, who are set for a huge season under Carlos Corberan.
There is no reason to take him away from an environment that is obviously helping his development a huge amount just yet, with there still being lots of room for Clarke to progress at that level.
Promoting him now carries a lot of risks, with the possibility of regular game time being low amid a strong first-team squad, and the switch from academy to senior football bringing with it a whole load of unknowns for the youngster.
All in all, Bielsa has no need to make such a risky move at this time, for both the club and the player.
The Argentine must therefore break Leeds’ fans hearts and exercise caution with regards to Clarke’s development, with the phenomenal youngster sure to get his chance at some point in the near future.