Leeds United should give Bailey Peacock-Farrell his chance v Wolves

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Leeds United take on Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Championship this evening, with the two clubs experiencing different fortunes. Wolves are top of the league and, despite a recent wobble, look like heading to promotion. Leeds on the other hand look set to remain in the Championship. After starting the season with such hope a poor run of form sees Leeds destined to second-tier football yet again.

The recent 3-0 loss to Middlesbrough essentially put the nail in Leeds’ promotion coffin. So tonight, when facing Wolves, perhaps Leeds should start blooding some young talent?

One Leeds player who deserves a chance is goalkeeper Bailey Peacock-Farrell.

The Northern Irish youngster has been loitering around the Leeds first-team for some time now. But still the 21-year-old has only the one Leeds United first-team appearance to his name.

Leeds have not had the best fortune with goalkeepers this season. Summer signing Felix Wiedwald is simply too inconsistent for the Championship. Andy Lonergan, his veteran back-up, has not impressed when given his chance. Lonergan is also ill for tonight’s game, meaning Peacock-Farrell is set for the Leeds bench.

It’s not clear how Leeds view their young stopper. In January, a trial at Landskrona in Sweden was given the thumbs up. Peacock-Farrell returned to Leeds after a three-day stint with the club.

When Peacock-Farrell first made his breakthrough into the Leeds first-team picture he looked destined to be a future starter. When a new deal was signed by the keeper in 2016 it came amid interest from Premier League sides Tottenham and Everton – as reported by talkSPORT.

Since then a broken hand stifled his development and many a Leeds fan is unsure Peacock-Farrell has what it takes to be a top goalkeeper.

Tonight is the perfect opportunity to give the youngster a chance. Leeds’ promotion hopes are a long shot at best. With Lonergan out and Wiedwald again low on confidence why not give the young stopper a chance to show what he can do.

If not now? Then when? At 21-years-old this is Peacock-Farrell’s time to make a name for himself.

If Leeds do not give him a chance during their current circumstances, it is hard to see a long-term future for the keeper at Elland Road.