Former Leeds United midfielder Leigh Bromby has claimed that Archie Gray is mature in terms of positional understanding and decision-making much above his years.
Gray played right-back for the first time on Saturday, and he excelled as Leeds defeated Bristol City 2-1 at Elland Road.
The 17-year-old, a midfielder by trade, was forced to play out of position owing to injuries, but he thrived and played with confidence and authority.
Bromby felt that debating Gray’s age is pointless because his positional awareness and decision-making are those of an experienced and seasoned performer.
The former Leeds player admitted that he does not want to place too much pressure on the 17-year-old, but emphasized that he is handling it well and has demonstrated the capacity to absorb everything and continue to progress.
“The big thing is his decision-making,” Bromby stated on BBC Radio Leeds.
“I don’t think we can keep talking about his age because his performances are so high; with his positioning and decision-making, he looks like he’s been playing for 10, 15, years.”
“He appears to be improving, and he has a lot of potential.”
“You don’t want to put too much pressure on the young players, but he appears to be able to deal with whatever is thrown at him right now.”
“One of the key things as a player is when he is getting throw that challenge, can he keep going and he seems to be able to absorb it and improve all the time.”
Gray will be hoping to make his return to the Leeds team when they face Norwich City at Carrow Road after the international break.
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