New Leeds short-term signing in training today

LEEDS United have taken a tentative step towards resolving their shortage of natural wingers by signing former Southampton trainee Gboly Ariyibi until the end of the season.
Leeds manager Brian McDermottLeeds manager Brian McDermott
Leeds manager Brian McDermott

The 18-year-old received a short-term deal after an appearance for United’s Under-21s at Thorp Arch last week and he is already training with Brian McDermott’s senior squad.

Ariyibi was raised in the USA and joined Southampton’s academy as a 10-year-old in 2005. The Premier League club released him at the end of last season and he has undergone a number of trials since, including one with Bolton Wanderers.

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McDermott has been devoid of out-and-out wingers throughout his time at Leeds, and the United boss saw enough talent in Ariyibi to sign him for the rest of this term.

McDermott said: “He’s only 18 and we kind of knew him already. He played in a couple of games and took part in some training sessions and he looks like he’s got a chance. He’s quite an exciting player – very, very quick. He’s a great lad too. He really wanted to sign for us and he’s been training with the first team. He looks good.”

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