Somewhat under the radar Mateo Joseph committed his future to Leeds United last Friday.
While everyone was talking about defensive needs in the transfer window and wondering how Archie Gray would handle Preston’s Liam Millar, the 20-year-old striker signed a new deal until 2028.
Forty-eight hours later, there were no new faces but Gray and United had won, with Joseph joining the action as a substitute just in time to celebrate Joel Piroe’s match-winning late penalty.
It was Joseph’s 13th appearance, all from the bench since starting in EFL Cup defeat at Wolves last season. That was followed by appearing in the last throes of defeat under Jess Marsch in the Premier League at Spurs.
Shortly after that, while with the squad in Elche during the World Cup break, he said: “Training with the first team every day, having breakfast with them, gets you that confidence. Games like Tottenham, one of the best teams in the world, give you the confidence you want. Maybe you feel nervous but I was looking for it and wanting to make an impact.”
However, opportunities for the Santander-born forward to do so have been scarce. In the midst of a relegation battle and managerial turmoil, he faded out of contention but now his diligence appears to be paying off.
