Leeds striker Mike Grella insists he is happy waiting for a chance in Simon Grayson's first team.
American hotshot has no qualms with squad role
Leeds United's promising striker Mike Grella insists he is happy waiting for a chance in Simon Grayson's first team.
The talented American has proved to be useful off the bench this season after being snapped up last February following a successful trial.
None more so than when he scored twice as a substitute in Tuesday's 5-1 extra-time FA Cup success over Kettering that set up a mouth-watering clash with rivals Manchester United at Old Trafford.
Grella scored off the bench in their first round clash at Oldham while he also found the back of the net in Jermaine Beckford's absence against Stockport in his first League One start for Leeds.
The 22-year-old is likely to remain on the bench for Leeds' crucial league game against Brentford at Griffin Park and he does not mind who gets the glory as long as Leeds secure promotion.
Promotion
"My main aim and I think everyone's main aim is to get Leeds promoted. We're all on the same page in that respect," he told
skysports.com
"However we do it, whether it's me coming off the bench, or playing more or me not playing at all, whatever the case may be getting Leeds promoted is the main aim.
"There is so much competition for spots, but at the same time everyone gets along really well and it's a great group at Leeds.
"Sometimes I look back and I think 'Wow I've come such a long way and I've done so well for myself'.
"Then I think 'maybe I could be playing more, maybe I could be contributing more'. My main thing is just to keep working hard and hopefully things will pan out.
"I think right now I'm right in the middle. I'm not looking to go out too much, but it's down to the club and what makes most sense for Leeds."
Outside chance
Meanwhile, the United States Under-20 international has not given up hope of making Bob Bradley's 23-man squad for next summer's World Cup.
However, while the striker admits he has an outside chance, he would not be too downhearted if he failed to make the plane for South Africa.
"I think there is less of a chance than more of a chance," he added on being called up. "The cup is half empty.
"You never know. You keep your head down and keep playing football.
"It's not something I'll be too surprised about if I don't make it."
