By Noel Whelan

4th Feb, 2023 | 2:15pm

Whelan thrilled by Weston McKennie latest as Leeds United footage emerges

Noel Whelan has revealed his “excitement” about the prospect of seeing Weston McKennie line up alongside United States teammate Tyler Adams at Leeds United.

The former Whites striker and club ambassador, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the 24-year-old January addition will command a place in Jesse Marsch’s starting eleven “straight away”.

Leeds United announced the arrival of McKennie on loan on Monday (30 January) – and Adams was quick to welcome his compatriot (as per footage from club media on Twitter)

The pair have notched a combined 77 caps for the United States and turned in a dominant display during the 0-0 group stage draw with England at the World Cup in Qatar.

Adams has impressed in his first season in English football after joining from RB Leipzig last summer (2022).

Leeds United are without a win in their last six Premier League games ahead of their meeting with Nottingham Forest on Sunday (5 February).

Whelan told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “First of all it’s really commendable how quickly we moved to get this one done.

“I think the relationship between McKennie and Adams in the national side means it will fit straight away.

“You don’t need to build any relationships. The balance is good, so it was a no-brainer.

“It’s a really exciting signing for Leeds United.

“I think he’ll take the place of Roca. McKennie is a player coming in from Juventus, there’s no way he’s come to sit on the bench.

“He is someone who commands a place in the side straight away.”

In other news, pundit verdict on Leeds United selling Diego Llorente amid savage claim.