Leeds United confirm player departure as details of agreement announced
Leeds United have sent teenage midfielder Charlie Crew out on loan to Doncaster Rovers for the rest of the season after a deal was agreed with the League Two side. The 18-year-old may have won international selection this season, but appeared unlikely to win further first team selection at Leeds, with the club eager for the Wales international to continue his progress by getting necessary game time.
Grant McCann's side are seventh in the League Two table, two points off the automatic promotion places. They booked their place in the FA Cup fourth round, beating Championship strugglers Hull City on penalties on Sunday and are hopeful of a successful end to the season, which Crew could play a part in.
Crew will now hope he can pick up plenty of minutes in League Two ahead of his return to Elland Road in the summer. Leeds are also expected to confirm in the next 24 hours that striker Joe Gelhardt has joined fellow Championship side Hull City, also on loan until the end of the season.
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Speaking about the deal Crew said; "“I’m really excited for this and really pleased that it could get sorted so quickly. I spoke with (Doncaster boss) Grant (McCann) and he showed real belief in me. “He’d clearly watched me and believes in me so it was a no-brainer”
Confirming the departure, Leeds United's statement read; "Leeds United can confirm Charlie Crew has joined Sky Bet League Two side Doncaster Rovers on loan, until the end of the 2024/25 season.
"The 18-year-old has been with the Whites since 2022 and during that time he has progressed through the Under-18s, Under-21s and more recently into the first team set-up, making his Championship debut against Plymouth Argyle in November. Having also made his senior international debut for Wales, Crew will now gain further experience in South Yorkshire with Grant McCann’s side, who are currently in the play-off positions in their push for promotion.
"Everyone at Leeds United wishes Charlie the best of luck during his time at the Eco-Power Stadium and we look forward to seeing his further development."