Leeds decided to send Joe Gelhardt on loan to Sunderland on January 27th as the Whites look to find regular first-team football for their £1m man.
The England Under-20 international initially looked set to be a deputy for Ross Stewart, with the Scotland international netting 11 goals in 15 games so far this season to emerge as Sunderland’s top scorer.
However, some sad news could now see Gelhardt handed a huge opportunity.
What’s the story?
Well, Stewart was unfortunately stretchered off in the 1-1 FA Cup draw against Fulham at Craven Cottage due to an Achilles injury.
Now, it has been revealed that the 26-year-old will miss the rest of the season, as he is set to undergo surgery to repair the Achilles damage.
While that is sad news for Stewart and the Black Cats, it represents a chance for Gelhardt – who Marcelo Bielsa once called a “very good” prospect – to step up.
Tony Mowbray has already shown he has no issues when it comes to placing his trust in youngsters, with the 20-year-old Amad Diallo, on loan from Manchester United, and the 22-year-old Jack Clarke emerging as key players this season.
Therefore, we see no reason why Gelhardt cannot grab this opportunity with both hands and become a star in the Championship – he certainly has the talent to do so.
Leeds may regret loaning Gelhardt
Just days after Leeds loaned Gelhardt to Sunderland, it has now been revealed that Rodrigo faces two months on the sidelines with an ankle injury, which he sustained in the 3-1 win over Accrington Stanley.
Given the fact Patrick Bamford is very injury prone, Jesse Marsch may now be regretting his decision to offload Gelhardt, who could be needed at Elland Road if more injuries occur in the attacking department.
Hopefully, that doesn’t turn out to be the case, and the Leeds prodigy can focus on making a name for himself at Sunderland between now and the end of the season.
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