Leeds United boast an academy most Premier League teams would envy as their squad has largely been built around their youth in recent years, both from their own set-ups and signings from elsewhere.
The likes of Crysencio Summerville, Joe Gelhardt, and Wilfried Gnonto are just some of the youth who have been given votes of confidence, and it seems to be a philosophy that the Whites are keen to continue employing.
Perhaps they could look to emulate these aforementioned successes with a rare defensive promotion, as Liam Cooper enters the twilight of his career.
The club captain has seen his recent years plagued with injuries and so his opportunities have dwindled, especially since the January signing of Max Wober.
His 13 league appearances this season are a damning indication of this deterioration, although he remains an incredibly solid option – ranking in the top ten for average Sofascore ratings within the squad. Perhaps before the gem exits Elland Road, or calls time on his career, he could focus his efforts on helping Jeremiah Chilokoa-Mullen fill the void.
Can Jeremiah Chilokoa-Mullen emulate Cooper at Leeds?
The young central defender has impressed of late for his defensive work in the Premier League 2 but stole the headlines in their most recent outing as he notched what would go on to be the winner as they defeated Southampton’s youth side.
It marked his first goal in U21 football, having scored just once previously for the U18 side, and the contribution saw his team climb to the top of the table.
However, it is not his proficiency in front of goal that has captured the imagination, but, instead his immaculate understanding of the game to cut out threats before they become dangerous.
He may already be on Javi Gracia’s radar as the 18-year-old has been ever-present for this title-chasing side, with the teenage sensation boasting a maturity and physicality that belies his years.
Such is his quality, he understandably holds a great deal of confidence in his ability. This was outlined in the description he offered on his own talents after the youngster penned a new deal back in 2021: “I’m a player who reads the game quite well and I like to defend on the front foot, I want to keep learning under the coaching staff and become a better player in general.”
With Cooper having had to use his match intelligence to compensate for his lack of speed, he has impressed at the top level for many years now – making 253 appearances in the top two divisions.
Chilokoa-Mullen could grow to do the same, with an impressive knowledge of the game sure to take him far should he latch himself onto his compatriot and absorb what he can whilst he’s still around.