Dennis Wise has praised the young players who look set to form the bulk of his team if Leeds are given the go-ahead to play in League One this season, while criticising some of the experienced players who have moved on.

Doubts still hang heavy over United, who are locked in talks with the Football League trying to get back their shares which will allow them to take part in competitions.

The uncertainty, following administration and Ken Bates' buy back, has meant Wise has been unable to strengthen his squad so he will be forced to rely to a large extent on untried youngsters.

The Leeds boss claims that is what he wants and said: "There were some big names who didn't perform last year.

"There's some young, hungry blood here now who want to prove things. That's what I want, not players who think they have done it and earn too much money."

Wise especially picked out Jermaine Beckford for praise after the striker scored the goal that gave United a 1-0 victory in last night's friendly against Darlington.

The youngster was allowed to go to Scunthorpe on loan last season and scored eight goals as they won promotion to the Championship, passing Leeds on the way down.

The Iron would like to sign Beckford permanently but Wise is desperate to hang on to him and said: "He's part of my club and part of my plans and I hope he is going to get some goals this season.

"Jermaine is a fantastic talent and deserves his chance. I loaned him out last year because I didn't think it was fair to stick him in, given the situation we were in."

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