Leeds striker's US hopes fading

Grella has made 11 appearances for Leeds this season.

Leeds striker Mike Grella says his chances with the United States are being thwarted because he is unable to break into the Leeds first team.

Substitute Grella scored his second goal for the club in the 2-0 FA Cup first round victory at Oldham.

The 22-year-old American told BBC Radio Leeds: "If you don't play, you're not going to get into the national side.

"I was always part of the national squad at under-20 and under-18 level and stuff like that."

He added: "I've always been very close, but it seems I'm just out of reach for anything to materialise now, just because I'm not getting any minutes [at Leeds]."

Grella, who has signed a three-year-deal at Elland Road, has started in only five of his 23 appearances for United.