Archie Gray was forced off early in Sunday morning’s friendly against Aston Villa with what looks like a nasty ankle injury. The 16-year-old was left on the floor in tears after a dangerous tackle from John McGinn, eventually being taken off on a stretcher.
The so-called friendly seemed anything but, with both sides putting in strong challenges and the referee making some questionable decisions. Gray had been booked two minutes prior to his injury for a typically strong but fair tackle on Emiliano Buendia, with Scotland international McGinn then challenging the young midfielder.
Earlier in the second half Patrick Bamford was knocked off balance in mid-air and fell awkwardly on his back after a push from Diego Carlos, who eventually suffered a late challenge from the Whites striker looking to even things out.
READ MORE: Leeds United vs Aston Villa as it happened
Tackles had been flying in but, for the most part, had been fair and without any malice. McGinn’s tackle changed that when the 27-year-old went over the top of the ball and stamped down on to Gray’s ankle.
Jesse Marsch and the players on the pitch looked concerned as the Leeds academy product was taken off on a stretcher. The Whites boss was visibly furious on the touchline, as was Bamford who was discussing the matter with the fourth official.
The teenager has been one of the brightest sparks during pre-season so far, producing two mature and aggressive displays against Blackpool and Brisbane Roar, encouraging Marsch to the point of labelling him a first-team player.
The extent of Gray’s injury is currently unknown, but no doubt Marsch will be quizzed on the young star’s situation after the game.
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