Leeds United manager Garry Monk hasn’t given Lewie Coyle too many chances this season – but that could change next term.
There are very few positives to take from a distressing end to the season which culminated in just two wins from eleven and cost Leeds United their place in the play-offs.
Yet, at least Whites supporters can take some solace in knowing that there is another talented youngster emerging through the Thorp Arch ranks.
21-year-old right-back Lewie Coyle was handed just his third Championship start of the season by manager Garry Monk in the drab, final day draw with Wigan Athletic.
Formerly the captain of the club’s Under-21 side, Coyle’s route to the first team has been much slower than the likes of Lewis Cook, Ronaldo Vieira and Alex Mowatt, not helped by the consistency of Luke Ayling on the right of defence this season and a series of injuries.
Yet, making two interceptions and five clearances in a no-nonsense defensive display capped by a thunderous tackle to put the brakes on a Wigan breakaway, Coyle’s performance will surely have caught Monk’s eye.
After all, the former Swansea City boss has demonstrated a desire to give his young players a chance all season and, if the manager stays, Coyle has done his chances of more game-time no harm at all.
With Charlie Taylor’s inevitable exit meaning Gaetano Berardi could become the club’s first choice left-back, the Kingston-Upon-Hull-born youngster could be a more regular fixture in the side next season.
At least Leeds fans have something to look forward to.
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