Hastings United who are a semi-professional football club and currently play in the 8th tier of English football confirmed via their club website that their midfield star Adam Lovatt would have a five day trial at Leeds United starting in early December. The midfielder has impressed in the last year and a half with his performances and has an excellent opportunity to make it big by impressing a club of United’s stature.
The youngster has generated a fair bit of interest, but the Whites seem to be in pole position to sign him. United have had some success off late in snapping up players from non-league. Last year, Ryan Edmondson joined Elland Road from York City, and the 17-year-old is currently on the fringes of the squad and has made two senior appearances this season. Sam Dalby is another one of the players who came from the lower division and is currently impressing while playing for the u-23. The striker earlier played for Leyton Orient before the Whites snapped him up in January this year.
Hastings manager Chris Agutter told the club website: “Adam is a great lad and has proved a model semi-professional since signing a contract with the club. Adam has developed both his stature and game considerably since he was promoted to the first team squad and will thoroughly deserve the chance at some point to move on into full-time professional football.”
Lovatt’s signing won’t make much impact in the first team but this is a move for the future, and it remains to be seen what the player has to offer. United have had a strong start to the season, and they need to keep on improving if they harbour hopes of qualifying to the Premier League through the direct promotion spots.
Bielsa is often known to be keen to work with youngsters as they buy into his philosophy much easily and are more committed to proving themselves. Often fans want a marquee signing to be made, but various clubs have often found gems in the lower divisions. Jamie Vardy’s story springs to mind in the recent times as he made it big from the lower divisions of football and went on to represent England at the World Cup and even managed a Premier League title with Leicester City.
United can do with some new signings as they are struggling with injuries at the moment. Against Bristol City, we saw two debutants start and this is undoubtedly an exciting time if you are a young Leeds player as Marcelo Bielsa is willing to take chances on them on big occasions. However, the club needs to have a right blend of youth and experience as the fight for promotion will heat up as the season goes by and a bit of inexperience can cost them dearly.
