Phil Hay thinks Leeds United youngster who’s a ‘big talent’ could end up playing hundreds of games for the club

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The Athletic journalist Phil Hay was answering questions from Leeds United fans during their break in the fixture calendar.

Hay addressed a number of topics, including the future of summer target Cody Gakpo.

The journalist also spoke about the failed transfer of Bamba Dieng, and the future ownership of the club.

He was also asked a question about who he thought is the most likely Leeds player to reach 500 appearances for the club.

Hay said: “Somebody in the replies said Archie Gray which, if he turns out to be as good as he looks and if he sticks around long enough, is a great shout.”

There’s certainly a number of good reasons why Hay thinks Gray could play for Leeds for a long time.

Jesse Marsch is a fan of the youngster, previously calling him a ‘big talent’.

He put Gray on the bench in the Premier League for Leeds’ crucial final four games of the season last year.

Marcelo Bielsa also had faith in Gray, giving him his first taste of being involved in a senior matchday squad.

Gray could play for Leeds for a long time

The midfielder also has family connections to the club that could convince him to stay at Elland Road.

His father, grandfather and great uncle all turned out for Leeds during their careers.

Leeds director of football Victor Orta was raving about Gray to a Spanish radio station last year.

He said people will be ‘talking about this guy non-stop’ in five years’ time.

Gray was playing against senior pros in the EFL Trophy for Leeds as a 15-year-old, and certainly held his own.

It’s difficult to throw someone so young into the first-team, however, Leeds have a lot of faith in Gray’s ability.

He would probably need to spend the majority of his career at Elland Road to reach 500 appearances for the club.

But if Gray can break into the team, he could end up playing for Leeds for a very long time.