‘We think really highly of him’: Marsch lauds Leeds teenager post-Chelsea, says he could play against Barnsley

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Leeds United manager, Jesse Marsch, has been singing the praises of young Elland Road starlet Leo Hjelde, insisting he has a big future.

Hjelde was on the bench as the Whites tore Chelsea apart at Elland Road over the weekend. The young Norwegian must have been watching in on delight as Marsch’s side simply had too much for the Blues.

Of course, getting on the bench is a big achievement for Hjelde, with the next step being first-team minutes. And speaking after the game, Marsch confirmed the teenager will play a part this season, starting with the cup game against Barnsley this week.

“Leo, we think really highly of him, he had a really good match last week against Norwich in the U21 match. I think he will feature in our match against Barnsley on Wednesday and I think he has the potential for a big future with us as well,” Marsch said after Leeds beat Chelsea.

The young defender will be hoping to get some minutes under his belt against the L1 outfit as he looks to show Marsch he can contribute through the season. Certainly, the Leeds boss seems to have a nice opinion of him already, so that is a good start for the youngster.

TBR’s View: Hjelde Can Help Leeds This Year

While a loan move might help Hjelde, sometimes players can learn so much from being around Premier League first-teams and getting little pieces of action every so often. That seems to be the plan with Hjelde here.

Of course, he might end up going out if Marsch feels that is the best way forward this season. But there is a lot to like about Hjelde and the fact Marsch fancies playing him this week speaks volumes.

Yet again, Leeds have another exciting young player on their hands it seems.