Yorkshire Evening Post journalist Graham Smyth says it is scary to think how good Archie Gray will be in a few years’ time.
Smyth was speaking on the latest episode of the Inside Elland Road Podcast, where he was discussing his decision to hand him an 8/10 in Leeds’ 2-1 win over Bristol City on Saturday.
While Gray has played there occasionally at youth level for England, to have performed so well out of position at just 17, was a testament to how good he is.
Smyth says Gray potential is scary
Speaking on Gray’s weekend performance, Smyth cannot imagine how good the teenager will be in a few years’ time, when he has more experience of senior football under his belt.
He said: “On reflection that was probably harsh [giving him an 8/10 vs Bristol City]. I think it was because a dangerous cross came in from his side in the first half, but I don’t know if you can entirely blame him for that as he was up against a tricky winger and largely pocketed him…
“Maybe he was worth 8.5/9 but I just think, he’s very young, if we’re giving him nines now, in a year’s time we’re going to have to go up to 11. He’s going to threaten the very establishment of ratings, if he’s putting in performances like that, at right-back at 17, what on earth is he going to be doing at 18, 19, 20.”
Leeds have a gem in Gray
Leeds really have struck gold having someone as good as Gray come through their ranks and be ready to make an impact in senior football at such a young age.
Of course, Gray still has plenty of development to do, but you can’t help comparing him to Jude Bellingham when he first broke through at Birmingham City, at a similar age.
In order to match the trajectory Gray is clearly heading towards, Leeds will need to ensure they are a Premier League club within the next two years, without a doubt.
