Leeds United skipper Liam Cooper believes that the youngsters coming through from the academy to make their mark at the senior level speaks volumes about the belief Marcelo Bielsa has in youth.
Jamie Shackleton was yet another player to step up this season and was impressive on Saturday when he was called up to replace Adam Forshaw in the 24th minute of the match against Derby County.
Not only the skipper, but also his manager, was full of praise for the teenager, with Bielsa going on to insist that Shackleton has already proven that he is a player with a big character.
"I couldn’t say that I was surprised, but Shackleton adapted immediately to the needs of the game but he already showed he was a player with big character", Bielsa told a press conference.
Cooper ofor n his part went on to add that the boys coming from the academy are "different class".
The 27-year-old also took time to add that the players are great assets to have and them coming through shows the faith Bielsa has in youth.
"It [youngsters coming through] speaks volumes of the belief that the manager has in youth", Cooper said at a press conference.
"These boys are a different class.
"Sometimes young players step up and don't get it, but these lads definitely do, and they're a great asset to have."
With one foot in the playoff final after their semi-final first leg victory against Derby County, Leeds welcome the Rams to Elland Road this evening.
