One to Watch – Max Gradel

Young midfielder Max Gradel has been identified by Vital QPR as the One to Watch as the Rs welcome Leeds to Loftus Road for the final game of the season

Name: Max Gradel

Date of Birth: 30/11/87

Former Clubs: Leicester City, Bournemouth

Appearances (Goals): 129 (33)

Ivorian winger Max Gradel has been in scintillating form for Leeds this season, netting 17 league goals and picking up the Player of the Year and Supporters` Player of the Year awards. Leeds have an outside chance of pinching the last playoff place and Gradel will be at the heart of all The Whites attacking play on Saturday.

Initially a product of the Leicester City Youth Academy, Gradel signed his first professional contract in 2007. At the beginning of the 2007/2008 season the midfielder joined Bournemouth initially on a one-month loan deal, which was soon extended for the rest of the season. 4 goals in 15 league appearances and glowing reports from The Cherries saw Gradel sign a new three year deal at Leicester.

He made his Leicester debut in 2009 and made 32 appearances in all competitions as Leicester gained promotion to the Championship. The following season, however, he only managed one appearance in the League Cup. In October 2009 Gradel joined Leeds on an initial one month loan deal, and Simon Grayson soon expressed an interest in keeping the 23 year old at the club. His loan was extended and a string of impressive performances saw his reputation soon blossom.

He eventually signed for Leeds permanently in January 2010 on a two and half year contract. The 2010/2011 season saw Gradel put in his best performances in his short career so far and has been central to Leeds success after promotion from League 1. He has expressed his desire to stay at the club and help Leeds to the Premiership and will no doubt be a continuous threat on Saturday.

Many thanks to Daniel for his contributions this season!