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Have Leeds just released ideal Kalvin Phillips replacement?

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Will Leeds United regret releasing Hugo Diaz?

A general view of Elland Road as play continues in the second half during the Sky Bet Championship match between Leeds United and Queens Park Rangers at Elland Road on December 8, 2018 in...

Leeds United have released young talent Hugo Diaz after two years at the club.

Diaz said on Twitter that the decision was ‘difficult to accept’ and it could be a decision Leeds regret.

Signed as a centre-back, Diaz was impressive for Leeds’ under-23 team, both with his commitment and leadership qualities.

He took a big step forward this past season, and developed into a holding midfielder.

This versatility would have made him an ideal deputy for first team star Kalvin Phillips, and at worst, a replacement in Phillips was sold.

Manager Marcelo Bielsa is famed for his ability to work players into different systems and roles, and Diaz looked like an ideal candidate to step up.

Marcelo Bielsa the head coach

Bielsa has earned the trust of Leeds fans, if indeed it is him who has made the call that he will have no use for Diaz next season, but its also a shame.

As one of the under-23s best players last season, it would have set a great example to other academy players if he was brought into to first team, that they can follow his path.

To just release him, seems a bit short sighted on Leeds part, but for Diaz it may be a blessing in disguise.

At 22, it would not have been fair for Leeds to hold him back in the under-23s another year when he needs to start playing at a competitive level.

A general view of Elland Road Stadium prior to the Sky Bet Championship match between Leeds United and Brighton & Hove Albion at Elland Road on October 17, 2015 in Leeds, England.