Former Leeds United striker Noel Whelan has tipped Celtic to make a move for Ryan Edmondson if he impresses for Aberdeen against Neil Lennon’s side.
The Harrogate-born striker began his footballing career down the road from Elland Road with York City, making his first team debut at the of 16. His impressive performances gained interest from Leeds and an eventual move, where he would go on to sign a scholarship deal and gradually progress through the various youth sides.
Having made just two appearances in total for the Whites, and none this season, Edmondson was loaned out to Scottish Premiership side Aberdeen over the summer.
Two goals and two assists in seven games in Scotland has seen the youngster gain a reputation and all eyes will be on his performance against Celtic this weekend in the Scottish Cup.
What has Whelan said about Ryan Edmondson’s future?
Speaking about the youngster’s ability, former Elland Road striker Whelan told Football Insider: “I think he’s shown his strength of character because sometimes you can dip your head down, feel sorry for yourself when you’ve been out the Leeds United side but doing everything right in the under-23s.
“Then you get a loan spell to a fantastic club that I’ve played at and I know how good they look after their players, gets an early injury that sets him back – it would be very easy to feel sorry for yourself.
“Right now, it’s testament to the lad that’s he’s come back, worked hard, stayed strong and more importantly, that strength of character. He’s come back better and stronger and being part of this Aberdeen side now, he’s got a great opportunity to get himself into a final.
“This is what it’s all about in progression in someone’s career, to play against the best people, test yourself against these defenders and these big clubs because if you do well enough against one of them, you might find yourself getting a move to one of them.
“It’s a game for the young man to showcase his skills and his attributes in and no better to do that than in a cup semi-final against Celtic who, at the minute, are struggling to keep clean sheets. “
Could Edmondson make an impact at Leeds if he returns?
It is doubtful that Edmondson would gain any playing time this season for Leeds, so a loan deal was the best decision he and the Whites could have made.
With Leeds now in the top flight, Marcelo Bielsa will need to select the strongest players available to him rather than gambling on inexperience. That being said, the Argentine has had trust in young players before, so who knows what the future holds for the striker…
READ MORE: Leeds fans have had their say on Edmondson before
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