Could Mallik Wilks make it into Leeds United’s first team?
Leeds United were eliminated from the FA Youth Cup after a dramatic 3-2 loss to Hull City.
The star of the show was young striker Mallik Wilks, who netted both goals for the Whites early in the first half.
His heroics had looked like putting the team into the next round, before two late Hull goals forced extra time. The Tigers continued their momentum, scoring early into the extra period and Leeds could not find a breakthrough.
Wilks has been prolific in the Leeds academy for the past 12 months, and scored for the under-23s earlier this season.
His goals against Hull were further illustration of his finishing ability, and will surely have impressed watching Leeds staff.
Wilks is still just 17, and turns 18 later this month, and he is a player Leeds should have high hopes for.
It may be too soon to expect him to break into the first team just yet, but if he continues to produce then Garry Monk and co will not be able to hold him back for too long.
One year ago Leeds beat Brentford 3-2 in the FA Youth Cup third round, and the star of the show that day was Ronaldo Vieira.
Leeds United’s Ronaldo Vieira celebrates after the match
Vieira has gone on to establish himself in the Leeds first team, and if Wilks can buck the trend of recent academy strikers and make the breakthrough then he will potentially save Leeds millions in the transfer market.
Here is a look at how fans reacted to Wilks’ performance…
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