Leeds manager Marcelo Bielsa has spoken about Niall Huggins, after Sunderland were linked to the versatile defender. The transfer seems to be close to completion, and Bielsa has outlined his reasons for letting Huggins leave.
UNDER-23S
“Nothing has happened we hadn't looked at before. These young players – [Ryan] Edmondson, Niall [Huggins], [Robbie] Gotts, [Jordan] Stevens – part of the under-23s in previous seasons. They have a process of development. When they peak in this development, like with each of these named, they have to compete with a very small group chosen for the season."
DEVELOPMENT
"In this case [Huggins]: [Luke] Ayling, [Stuart] Dallas and [Jamie] Shackleton play in his position. He hasn't got the chances to overcome these players at the club. If I keep him at the club rather than aid his development, I hinder it. If the youngsters are not here, there comes a moment they need to look for higher competition than the 23s because progress would be stalled. All our expectation is they compete outside the club for a year and we find an evolution that invites them back into the fold."
LOAN PLAYERS
"Without exception, every player out on loan I see every week because it's my function, you grow a bond between these players, an affection. Alfie [McCalmont] and [Leif] Davis too. We desire it goes well for them and to bring them back. They made big efforts to be in the group and we accompanied them.”
