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Marsch makes Leeds star his prime pick to benefit from five subs after huge recent impression

Leeds manager Jesse Marsch faces the media - screengrab via LUFCTV

Leeds United boss Jesse Marsch has revealed that Crysencio Summerville will benefit from more game time with the incoming five substitutes rule.

The Whites have built up a reputation for developing and handing significant first-team opportunities to young players. Striker Joe Gelhardt, 19, for instance, has played 14 Premier League games and recently scored a late winner against Norwich.

Dutch winger Summerville is another who is battling for a bigger first-team role this term.

The 20-year-old has played five top-flight games this campaign but has not featured since December. While Marsch and his predecessor Marcelo Bielsa have put a focus on youth talent, they have also relied on experience.

And with only three substitutes allowed, both managers have had to make tough decisions. Marsch indeed admitted in a press conference on Thursday that Summerville‘s chances have been hampered.

However, with the Premier League allowing five substitutes from next season, the Leeds attacker is set to benefit.

“He’s played fantastic, he has grown since I have been here,” Marsch said.

“I talked to him about his behaviour and mentality, what he needs to be like when he shows up here, how to adapt to our style, the tactics and behaviours.

“He’s grown a lot in the past month. Professional behaviour and work ethic shows up in this performance.

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“For five subs in the future – I think of him, Joffy [Gelhardt], [Sam] Greenwood and [Charlie] Cresswell, who deserve more chances to play.

“It’s a shame I can only use three for now, I would love to have Cry in more important moments for us. Great job he is showing of learning more.”

Summerville has featured more in the club’s Under-23s team. He scored a hat-trick against Crystal Palace on Monday.

Gelhardt also featured in that match but limped off with a suspected dead leg.

Marsch said of his availability for Saturday’s Premier League clash with Watford: “I did not include him at the start because he has not trained every day this week, but we think he trains tomorrow and then available at the weekend.”

Leeds youngsters impressing for Marsch

Joe Gelhardt goal Leeds v Norwich March 2022

Summerville signed for Leeds from Feyenoord in summer 2020, while Gelhardt joined from Wigan in the same transfer window.

Midfielder Greenwood was a third arrival at that time, making that period a particularly fruitful one for Leeds.

Centre-back Cresswell, meanwhile, is a product of the Leeds academy.

The quartet’s game time chances have been enhanced this season due to a host of first-team injuries.

The future looks secure for the Whites if they can keep hold of their rising talents.