Mason Crotcher’s career so far
The 17-year-old is perhaps unknown to most Whites supporters, but he does have a solid reputation in the game at the young level after making an impression with Sunderland over the years.
Although Cotcher can play wide forward as well, his primary position is striker. In 19 games with the Black Cats U18 team last season, he contributed to ten goals.
In an attempt to keep the player on Wearside, Tony Mowbray, the manager at the Stadium of Light at the time, had even selected Cotcher for an FA Cup match.
But the youth and the club were unable to come to an agreement, and he left in the summer, searching for a new team.
Cotcher is believed to have been seen by Manchester United, Brighton, Rangers, and Arsenal during his time there, so it’s not for lack of interest.
Leeds United will trial Mason Cotcher.
Leeds, however, are now paying more attention to Cotcher after it was disclosed by the Sunderland Echo that he has been training at Thorp Arch in an attempt to secure a contract. In a recent match, he scored the game-winning goal against the Black Cats.
Mason Cotcher, a former member of Sunderland’s youth team, recently participated in a trial match for Leeds United’s under-18 squad and scored against his former team.
“Sunderland made a bid to hang onto Cotcher, but were unsuccessful; in January, the player went on trial with Manchester United before joining Leeds United. In the Premier League under-18 north campaign, Leeds under-18s defeated Sunderland 1-0 thanks to a goal by Cotcher, who started and finished the match.”
Leeds continue to focus on youth
Cotcher’s arrival would undoubtedly continue a trend in which Leeds has improved its development sides in recent years—arguably the biggest example of this being Crysencio Summerville, who joined as a teenager from Feyenoord and is now an important member of the first team, his value having increased significantly since his arrival.
This indicates that Elland Road will offer a route to the first team, making them a desirable choice for players. However, if they are promoted to the Premier League this season—which appears to be a serious possibility—that may prove to be more difficult.
Championship Table (As it stands February 27th)
Team
P
GD
Pts
1
34
41
78
2
34
37
72
3
34
23
72
4
34
23
67
