Leeds United signed Niklas Haugland in the summer, and he is making an impression with the under-18s at Elland Road.
One of the most exciting aspects about Leeds’ season has been the raft of youngsters that have been given their chance under Marcelo Bielsa and helped the Whites remain in the automatic-promotion spots in the Championship.
Bailey Peacock-Farrell, Jack Clarke and Jamie Shackleton are amongst those either holding down regular first-team spots or on the cusp of joining them in the lineup.
This not only helps add to the unity between the fans and the squad, but frees up gaps in the younger squads for the next cluster of prospects to show what they can do and on a more regular basis.
And one player that may soon benefit is Niklas Haugland. The summer signing is currently playing for the under-18s after joining from Fana IL on a three-year deal.
The 16-year-old recently bagged his first goal for the academy side, and added to that tally at the weekend with a deflected goal in the 2-0 win against Sheffield Wednesday.
Obviously, Leeds fans will be hoping that it is not the best goal that he will score. But Haugland’s overall performance on the day really hinted that he could be a name to watch out for in the coming years.
He was powerful in challenges and duels, showed plenty of skill to glide by defenders and needed little encouragement to run with the ball.
It was the kind of performance that got some supporters talking on social media. And while a first-team chance looks a way off at this stage, Haugland only needs to look at how Ryan Edmondson went from under-18 signing to first-team debutant in less than a season last term for encouragement.
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