Why Bryce Hosannah has a chance to earn first-team football at Leeds this season

Leeds United fans have plenty to be excited about this season. With the arrival of new manager Marcelo Bielsa, many hope the club can restore some of its former glory and at least challenge for a top-6 spot in the Championship.

Something else that should make the fans happy is the fact that a talented generation is coming through the youth ranks. Many of the youngsters are being tipped for a bright future but one name stands out – Bryce Hosannah. Supporters and experts alike suggest he is ready to take a huge leap forward and be a part of the first-team.

Hosannah is a 19-year-old full-back, who was born in Lambeth, London. He started his career at Crystal Palace but was released last summer and joined Leeds. He predominantly plays on the right but could be used as a left-back if necessary.

Last season, Hosannah made 24 appearances for the U23 side, scoring 2 goals. The team, led by Carlos Corberan, didn’t have the strongest of campaigns, recording 13 wins and 12 losses. The defender excelled though, and was one of the players who can look back at their performances with pride.

It came as no surprise when he was given a contract extension in May. His current deal runs until 2020. Hosannah will be hoping to be given a chance in the first-team during pre-season and if he manages to impress, he might find himself as a part of the senior squad.

He has many strong characteristics about his game. One of them is his speed. His runs down the right-wing have been nightmarish for opposition defenders. He can also cross the ball well and doesn’t back down in a challenge.

It remains to be seen whether Bielsa will deploy his famous 3-3-1-3 formation at Leeds and what it will mean for the players currently in the squad. Luke Ayling is the club’s first-choice right-back but he could be used as a centre-back by the new South American boss.

Interestingly enough, Lewie Coyle was expected to come in and compete for a first-team place. The 22-year-old right-back had an amazing campaign with Fleetwood Town in 2017/18, making 48 appearances in all competitions.

He helped his club’s cause by providing 6 assists. Instead of coming back to Elland Road though, Coyle will stay at Fleetwood as his loan was renewed at least until January.

This is a magnificent opportunity for Hosannah, who can now try to break into the first-team and work with Marcelo Bielsa. The youngster might not start every game but he might be given a chance. A chance that he thoroughly deserves!