Former Leeds United winger Sean McGurk has wished Scott Godden well upon the announcement of his departure from Elland Road.
Godden has moved to the USA to join up with the Rutgers Scarlet Knights – a university varsity team in New Jersey.
And McGurk, who left Leeds himself earlier this year for Swindon Town, sent a message to his old teammate.
He wrote on his personal Instagram account (22 May): “Good luck mate.”
Leeds United will hope their old boys can flourish elsewhere
It is inevitable that, in the process of developing academy talent, a number of young players with potential end up leaving the club rather than breaking through and earning a place in the first team.
Blocked pathways due to high-performing senior stars, late development and misjudgment of talent can all lead to good players falling by the wayside.
But those that find new homes and excel could one day return to take their place in the senior squad – and McGurk and Godden may still harbour dreams of one day returning to a higher level after earning valuable experience and developing in a new environment.
Even if they never return to Elland Road, the success of a former academy star can only serve as a good advert for the quality of training available in the club’s youth set-up.
And with talents like Archie Gray forcing their way into the first team, it is clear that a pathway does exist for those who exhibit exceptional qualities at an early age.
Despite the losses of two young players, the future appears bright for the Leeds academy pipeline.
