(Picture: Action Images via Reuters)
By Matt Bishop
York City boss Martin Gray believes Leeds United loanee Bailey Peacock-Farrell has a “massive future” ahead of him, but needs first-team opportunities.
The 20-year-old goalkeeper joined the Minstermen on a one-month deal on Thursday, and is set to make his National League debut on Saturday against Leamington.
Peacock-Farrell nearly joined League One Oldham on a season-long loan in July, but saw that deal break down, and has found opportunities at Elland Road hard to come by with Felix Wiedwald and Andy Lonergan above him in the pecking order.
As a result, Gray has moved to bring the youngster to Bootham Crescent, after seeing a move for Darlington ‘keeper Adam Bartlett knocked back, and told the club’s website: “He’s been very highly recommended.
“He’s big, 6ft 4ins, and very athletic. He has got a massive future ahead of him.
“But he needs some real senior football now and, hopefully, we can give him the opportunity.”
After spending seven years at Middlesbrough, Peacock-Farrell joined Leeds in 2013, before signing his first professional contract in 2015 and agreeing a three-year contract this summer.
18 months ago, the young ‘keeper made his Championship debut for the Whites at the age of just 19, and played well in a 1-1 draw against QPR.