Tim Sherwood makes big claim about Arsenal loanee Eddie Nketiah at Leeds

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Tim Sherwood has told Sky Sports’ The Debate (broadcasted at 10pm on Thursday) that Arsenal loanee Eddie Nketiah could push Leeds United towards promotion, after joining the Whites on a season-long loan.

Nketiah, 20, joined the Whites on a season-long loan from Arsenal on deadline day as Leeds moved quickly to beat Bristol City, Swansea City and Fortuna Dusseldorf to the signing of the England Under-21 international.

Leeds lost Kemar Roofe to Anderlecht earlier in the month, with Vincent Kompany’s side opting to sign the former West Bromwich Albion player given that Roofe had entered the final 12 months of his contract at Elland Road.

It saw Leeds move for Nketiah who has an impeccable scoring rate for Arsenal’s Under-23 side, scoring 28 in 38. Ex-Spurs boss Sherwood picked Nketiah’s move to Leeds as his deal of the day, and claims he could get Leeds promoted.

“Nketiah to Leeds today, for me,” Sherwood said, when asked for his deal of the day. “He needs to go out and get game time, rather Under-21 football, and there is no better stage to go out and get game time than Elland Road.

“That crowd will love this kid. He runs in behind, he wants to chase balls, gets himself in the box and scores goals. He’s got a good attitude, with a bit of spite which is what you need. I love him, I love watching him play.

“I’m sure he’s ready to step up and he’s got a great stage to do it on. Leeds is a proper football club. If he goes there, starts well, scores a lot of goals, becomes a sensation, he can be crucial in getting Leeds promoted.”

TBR’s view – Nketiah must cope with physical Championship

Nketiah has shown for Arsenal’s Under-23 side, first team and during pre-season that he has enormous potential, enormous pace, and an enormous eye for goal. Whether he is a success at Leeds, remains to be seen.

There is plenty of hype surrounding Nketiah’s move to Leeds and if he can help their promotion clause. He looks more than good enough to shine at Leeds, but one issue could be make or break.

The Championship is a physical league, something Nketiah will not be used to as of yet. Will he start against Nottingham Forest on Saturday? It remains to be seen.