Reid: Milner Loan Right Decision

Last updated : 15 September 2003 By Kevin Markey
Reid has been criticised in some quarters for bringing in Arsenal's Jermaine Pennant on a two-month deal to play on the right-hand side of Leeds' midfield.

The arrival of the England U-21 international has effectively pushed the home-grown Milner out of the first-team picture, enabling The Whites to loan him out to Second Division Swindon.

But the Leeds boss explained: "I know there is a debate in football about loans - I've let James go out for a month of games, while the likes of Franny Jeffers and Jermaine have also gone out.

"But I see young England players going out and playing league football and I can't see anything wrong with that to tell the truth.

"You get people on one hand moaning the young players don't get a chance and then you get the loan system which gives them a chance and people moan again. I get a bit confused!

"James has had a game at league level and he's going to get more while we're not playing him. I know Andy King well and the move can only enhance his football education.

"I did it with a young Garry Flitcroft years ago when he was at Manchester City and he went to Bury. There have been others, so I can't understand people having anything against it.

"If you're a manager and you've a young player and you want to let him go on loan to improve him then do it.

"For the likes of Jermaine and Franny, they are English players who need to be playing at the highest level to improve themselves."