Ex-Leeds star Whelan comments on new signing Horton, takes dig at Silvestri?

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Leeds have signed a new goalkeeper, but what is next for Marco Silvestri?

Former Leeds United striker Noel Whelan has welcomed the addition of Charlie Horton to the club, who signed as a free agent on Tuesday.

The goalkeeper is expected to be a back-up to Marco Silvestri, but Whelan’s tweet could be perceived as a dig at the Italian, discussing an area of his game where he is weaker than his shot-stopping.

Whelan, a co-commentator for BBC Radio Leeds, was outspoken in his criticism of the six Leeds players accused of refusing to play for the club during the final two games of the season, claiming injury. Whelan used his Twitter page at the time to say the six should never play for the club again.

Silvestri vehemently denied the claims, insisting he was injured.

The Italian impressed during his debut season, but claiming high crosses was not his strongest trait, recording only the 16th highest total in the Championship, at an average of less than one per game.

New signing Horton stands tall at 6ft 4, but is unproven in English football despite spells with Peteborough and Cardiff, yet to play a competitive game.

He has huge potential and Leeds clearly have high hopes for him, but Silvestri, who has always publicly stated his affection for the club, is unlikely to give up the number one position without a fight.