Leeds United could be looking at their next rising star as Alfie McCalmont continues to shine on loan with Oldham Athletic. The midfielder has tallied three goals and two assists whilst in League Two and he has become a regular starter under Harry Kewell (via Transfermarkt).

McCalmont got his first taste of senior football last campaign when he made two appearances for the Whites. He made two cameo appearances against Salford and Stoke in his boyhood club's brief run in the EFL Cup.

Once he returns from his loan duties, Marcelo Bielsa could look to integrate him further into his squad as Leeds enjoy their fresh chapter in the Premier League.

McCalmont could be another Shackleton

Jamie Shackleton is a perfect example of how much Leeds value growing their academy players. The youngster made his senior debut in 2018 and has quickly become a player that Bielsa values as a senior playmaker. He made 24 appearances for the Leeds first team last season and has featured five times in the Premier League this term.

In McCalmont's latest appearance against Walsall, he completed 100% of his attempted long balls and put in two tackles. However, he also missed two big goalscoring opportunities and hit the woodwork (via Sofascore). Whilst this shows the promise of a keen attacker, tidying up his accuracy is something that Bielsa can work with him on once he returns to Yorkshire in the summer.

Leeds are lacking creativity in their midfield at the moment, with Patrick Bamford doing a lot of the leg work by himself when it comes to scoring goals. If the manager can integrate McCalmont into the team and use him as a super sub, he could make a huge impact on matches that aren't going Leeds' way.

With Bamford being their main weapon, opposing teams are finding ways to easily silence the Whites. And whilst it is a problem area that must be addressed, Bielsa could save Andrea Radrizzani the time and money spent on searching for a new recruit by promoting the eager McCalmont.

In other news, Carlton Palmer fears Robin Koch injury is “massive blow” to Leeds...