By Noel Whelan

27th Jan, 2023 | 2:41pm

Leeds United employee shares 'massive' verdict on Joe Gelhardt future as exit completed

Noel Whelan has claimed a loan exit for Joe Gelhardt is “the best thing” for Leeds United and the young striker after he finalised his move to Sunderland.

The former Whites striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, backed the 20-year-old to come back to Elland Road “a much better player” in the summer.

Leeds United confirmed on Friday (27 January) that Gelhardt has completed a loan move to Sunderland until the end of the season.

The Whites have completed a striker signing this month, with Georginio Rutter joining the Yorkshire club for a club-record fee.

Gelhardt made four starts for Leeds United this season – but just one came in the Premier League.

The England Under-20 international managed two goals and four assists last term as the Whites staved off relegation amid injury to talisman Patrick Bamford.

Sunderland sit ninth in the Championship but are firmly in the race for a playoff place.

Whelan told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “It’s something which he desperately needs right now.

“He needs game time and consistent minutes. He’s been on the sidelines, having to put up with bits and pieces here and there.

“This is the best thing for his progression and his career – and for Leeds United.

“The string of games he will get at Sunderland will massively improve him as a player.

“It will give him more and more belief and confidence so that he can come back to Leeds next season a much better player.”

In other news, Agbonlahor issues Marsch sack ultimatum amid £128m Leeds United reveal.