Clarke has made two substitute appearances for Leeds United’s first team.
Marcelo Bielsa has considered handing Jack Clarke his first Leeds United start.
Clarke has impressed in two cameo appearances for Leeds, whose academy he progressed through.
And after the latest of those at Blackburn Rovers on Saturday, several Whites fans called for the winger to be given a more prominent role in Bielsa’s team.
But speaking ahead of Leeds’ visit of Ipswich Town on Wednesday, the Argentine revealed he will continue proceeding with caution over Clarke, who does not turn 18 for another month.
“I thought about (starting Clarke),” Bielsa told the Yorkshire Evening Post. “Every time Jack Clarke gets in and plays a game as a sub he gives positives answers. He brings things to the team.
“I think the process I am following with him and giving him time will give him time to improve.”
According to Bielsa, Luke Ayling, Jack Harrison and Pablo Hernandez could each return to Leeds’ starting 11 against Ipswich.
But Barry Douglas (who has missed the past three weeks through injury) and Pontus Jansson (whose partner gave birth on Monday) will likely miss out.
The Leeds manager added: “Probably Pablo will be a starter tomorrow. Jansson will come back tonight and I don’t think he will be a starter tomorrow, and we will see if he will be able to be in the group.
“It would be risky and premature for (Douglas) to play this one but probably Harrison will play.”
Is Bielsa right to show patience where Clarke is concerned?
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