Neil Redfearn says that Leeds United youngster Ronaldo Vieira has the power of a man in a boy's body.

The defensive midfielder, who is just 18 years old, is enjoying a breakthrough season and has won huge plaudits for his assured performances in the centre of the park for the Whites.




Ex-England boss Steve McClaren, who came up against Vieira when in charge of Derby County earlier this season, was left almost lost for words after the midfielder's display.

"Vieira, wow – 18 years old", McClaren said, before lavishing praise on the youngster.
 


Redfearn is also a fully signed up member of the Vieira fan club and believes he has improved throughout the season.

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"He's an outstanding young talent, very athletic", Redfearn said on Radio Yorkshire.

"He's got this power – he's got the power of a man in a boy's body.

"He can get about the pitch and his game understanding has got better and better.

"That's credit to what he's been taught.

"He's turning into a real top act and if Leeds can keep hold of him and [Kalvin] Phillips in midfield…."

Leeds could find themselves tested for Vieira in the summer transfer window as Premier League clubs are likely to have taken note of the 18-year-old's performances at Elland Road this season.

Vieira, whose brother Romario is also on the books at Leeds, joined the Whites in 2015.

He previously had a spell in Benfica's youth set-up.