Chance for Matt To Shine

Last updated : 30 July 2003 By Kevin Markey
The central defender made just three first team substitute appearances last term - and with the hard-up club ruling out big money signings, there has rarely been a better time for products of United's Academy to make an impact.

Matthew Kilgallon
                                                           Matt shines for Leeds
Kilgallon has already impressed in pre-season friendlies for the first team.
Now he says: "I've just got to keep doing well in games and in training and hope to land my chance in the first team next season."

Reserve team coach Steve Agnew watched Kilgallon in action against Bradford Park Avenue this week and was quick to praise the former Tadcaster Grammar School pupil.

Agnew said: "Matthew showed his ability and bossed the aerial challenges against Bradford. With the right attitude there are a few players in the reserves who will have an opportunity in the first team at some stage in the coming season."

Kilgallon made his debut in the UEFA Cup second round, second leg, against Hapoel Tel Aviv last season and went on to appear in the Premiership against West Ham and Aston Villa.

His chances are improved because there are question marks over the fitness of central defenders Lucas Radebe and Dominic Matteo, who had knee surgery in the summer and have not yet returned to match action.

Also, French international centre-back Zoumana Camara was less than impressive during his debut in the 4-2 defeat at Burnley last Sunday, and Michael Duberry has not pushed himself forward as he should.

Radebe will not be fit in time for Friday night's friendly at Hull, while manager Peter Reid must decide whether to risk skipper Matteo.