Leeds United have another youth talent looking to burst through into the senior picture soon in striker Carrick Njinko.
Secondary to Daniel Farke’s objective of keeping Leeds in the Premier League is the aim of developing the squad to be worth a lot more in years to come.
It’s fair to say he’s doing that with key first teamers. But, we’re yet to see Farke consistently call upon youngsters. He’s not had a great deal of opportunities to do it. Although, there’s a handful in the current U21s worth looking at.
Carrick Njinko scores again as blistering Leeds United U21 campaign continues
For 18-year-old Carrick Njinko, there’s been a slight-yet-significant change to his game this season. Last season, the teenager played exclusively on the wing, predominantly on the right. This season, he’s been converted into a striker this season, and it’s paying off.
In three Premier League 2 appearances against fellow Category 1 academy sides, he’s netted six, including a hattrick vs West Brom.
Recently in the Premier League Cup, he netted a brace against Stockport County U21s. Now, he’s continued his form with a goal against senior opposition in the EFL Trophy.
Despite a 4-2 defeat against Oldham Athletic, Njinko netted his ninth in as many games this season in ruthless fashion. Latching onto a pass from fellow goalscorer Callum Mills, Njinko made a darting run across his marker before checking back inside onto his right foot and lashing beyond the Latics ‘keeper.
He’d only come on at half-time, scoring six minutes later:
Leeds United need to develop youngsters with ideal loan opportunities away from Thorp Arch
It’s hard to say Njinko should be coming straight into the Leeds senior team because of his form in front of goal. There’s such a huge jump from U21 football to the senior game, let alone the Premier League.
That being said, Leeds cannot let Njinko’s form tail off into obscurity, like we’ve seen from several talented players here.
We need to make sure he’s getting senior exposure as soon as possible, ideally with a loan if he’s not involved in the FA Cup.
The same goes for Mills, Alfie Cresswell and multiple others in Scott Gardner’s youth side.