Brighton and Hove Albion head coach Graham Potter has been 'delighted' with Ben White's Leeds United loan spell this season as he addressed the 22-year-old's future at the club.
White signed on at Elland Road in the summer for a season-long loan deal and has played every single minute of Leeds' 37 Championship games so far and has been played a key role in what has been the division's best defence.
While the rest of the campaign has been plunged into uncertainty, Potter has discussed White's season so far.
“I’m aware of his progress and we keep a track of that, he’s been doing well," he told Brighton's official website. "I’ve spoken with him over text to wish him well for the rest of the season.
“We’re pleased with how he’s doing there, and the stakes are obviously high with Leeds trying to get into the Premier League, but those experiences bring their own challenges and will help him in his development.
“It’s why you go on loan in many ways, he’s done really well. It’ll be fascinating to see how it goes.”
White has been Marcelo Bielsa's first choice to replace Kalvin Phillips in midfield this season and Potter is happy to trust in the Leeds head coach's judgement here.
“It’s not surprised me because he’s got those type of qualities,” he added.
“He’s mobile and good on the ball and is in the hands of a very good coach in Marcelo Bielsa. Whatever he decides for Ben is fine by me."
Potter also discussed White's progress over the past two season and admitted he wants to work with him in the future, which could be a blow for any Leeds hopes of landing him on a permanent deal.
“I’ve been aware of his progress since he was [on loan] at Newport County and I wanted to sign him when I was in charge at Swansea City.
“I’m delighted with the experience he’s had so far this season with Leeds and we’re looking forward to working with him in the future.”
