Marcelo Bielsa keeping a close eye on Ryan Edmondson's development with Leeds United

Leeds United's head coach is keeping a keen eye on young striker Ryan Edmondson
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Marcelo Bielsa insists he is monitoring the development of Leeds United striker Ryan Edmondson closely at Thorp Arch.

The highly-rated 18-year-old forward has been included in just one senior matchday squad by the Argentine since his arrival in West Yorkshire a little over 18 months ago.

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Edmondson has continued to impress for the club's Under-23s outfit this season having bagged 10 goals in all competitions so far.

Leeds United striker Ryan Edmondson. (Pic: Tony Johnson)Leeds United striker Ryan Edmondson. (Pic: Tony Johnson)
Leeds United striker Ryan Edmondson. (Pic: Tony Johnson)

The former York City front man also notched 19 times last term, as he helped Leeds claim the Professional Development League national title in April.

Patrick Bamford remains the Whites only first team striker on the books at Elland Road following Arsenal's decision to recall Eddie Nketiah early from his season-long loan deal this month.

Calls have been made for Edmondson to be handed an opportunity in the absence of a second forward, with Bielsa keeping a close eye on his progression in the development ranks.

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“Thirty-five players are working with us," Bielsa said. "We look at every one of them, after I choose what I think are the best players.

“Of course, he has limits and he recognises them. Maybe Edmondson is the best goalscorer on the team and he should play instead of Bamford and I am wrong.

“But what everybody has to know, and no doubt, everything Edmondson does in training and matches, I am looking at it.

“I watch all of Edmondson’s matches, and I’m always watching his effort and everything he does. After that I evaluate and I take decisions. Maybe they are wrong.”

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Asked about the possibility of Edmondson heading out on loan this month, Bielsa added: "We didn’t consider this possibility.

"He is 18. The process of the development of one young player is linked with his own reality, not with the reality of the team."