Forget Joffy: Leeds could have future star in "fiery" teen who's shades of Alan Smith - opinion

Whilst regular game time is hard to come by, it’s no secret that Leeds United boss Marcelo Bielsa has always had an eye on the academy as several of the club’s best youth prospects have caught the eye enough to be involved with the senior squad.

The likes of Charlie Cresswell, Joe Gelhardt and Lewis Bate have all featured in the Premier League this season, partly owing to the squad’s ever-problematic injury crisis at Thorp Arch but largely, it is down to their ability too.

One name who could follow in the footsteps of the young trio is Max Dean, who continues to light it up at just 17 years of age.

Archie Gray’s inclusion in some of Leeds’ matchday squads this campaign proves that Bielsa isn’t afraid to turn to starlets as young as 15 – if you’re good enough, you’re old enough.

That should provide some hope to Dean and his teammates.

The Ormskirk-born forward is arguably amongst the most prolific at the club, having scored ten goals across 25 appearances for the U23 squad, playing well above his age category.

Three of those goals have come in 11 matches in the Premier League 2 this campaign, where he has also shown impressive versatility, being able to not just play through the middle but on both flanks too.

His manager, Mark Jackson, has waxed lyrical about his ability and character, telling reporters (via LeedsLive):

“You don’t have to prepare it with Deano. Deano’s a fiery character, I don’t like to quash that in him. He’s got an edge to him and how he plays – and I like that in his personality.

“Yes he gets frustrated at times and we have to curtail it but his hunger to press and work hard and his hunger to score goals is really apparent.”

The promising teenager looks to be your typical fox-in-the-box poacher,