Leeds United credited Rovers’ development of Harvey Elliott in agreeing to Ian Poveda’s loan switch – with the man himself excited to be working under Tony Mowbray.

The attacker says Mowbray was a key influence in his move and that has allowed him to settle into life at the club quickly ahead of what could be a potential debut at Middlesbrough today.

Poveda signed a season-long loan deal at Rovers, the latest Premier League club to send their young talent to work under Mowbray, and the 21-year-old has been impressed with what he’s heard from his early conversations with the manager.

He has trained with the squad this week, Mowbray outlining a number of potential roles for Poveda who has been with a host of Europe’s top clubs throughout his youth but is now looking to build his experience in the Championship with Rovers.

He said: “I think I have settled in pretty well. It’s been pretty easy with the team-mates and manager I have got.

“For me coming here was about the manager and the team and the style of play.

“I’m really looking forward to working with the manager, I think he’s great. He communicates well with his players, he gives clear and direct instructions on how he wants to play.

“I can play out wide or as a No.10 but it will be the decision of the manager in deciding the roles and positions of all the players on the team so I will just adhere to that.

Getting up to speed quickly shouldn’t be an issue for Poveda, Rovers’ data showing him to be one of the fittest players at Leeds United who, under Marcelo Bielsa, have a reputation for getting through plenty of work.

While Poveda, who has made 12 substitute appearances in the Premier League, will be keen to showcase his talent on the ball, he knows that to break into Mowbray’s team he will also be required to do the hard yards out of possession.

He says that’s something he’s ready for, and having studied Rovers closely since learning of their interest earlier this month, he feels he can settle into his new surroundings quickly.

“If you want to play at Leeds you have to be fit so I’ve worked hard and it’s something they have instilled in you,” he explained.

I know the physical demands have to be met and that’s no problem for me. Football’s evolving all the time but the hard work will always remain.

“The manager here will be looking for that from my game.

“I feel ready, I’m confident in my ability and ready to go.

“I’ve been watching the team, me and my family have known about this move and we’re happy with the decision we’ve made in coming here.”

His move to Leeds came in January 2020 from Manchester City, the club earning an historic promotion back to the Premier League just six months after his arrival.

Much of his time at Elland Road, and his senior appearances, have come without fans however due to the coronavirus restrictions.

With stadiums now able to filled with fans, Poveda feels he can get them out of their seat with his ability on the ball.

He added: “I’m a skilful player, I like to create chances and goals for the team, but I will work hard and I don’t shy away from skipping away from players and showing my skills.

“I’ll leave that for the fans to decide, but I’m looking forward to playing with fans now.”

An England youth international up to Under-20s level, Poveda has played for some of Europe’s elite clubs, having previously been on the books of Chelsea, Arsenal, Barcelona and Manchester City before landing at Leeds.

On those experiences, he said: “Every club I’ve been at has had a different impact and that’s helped me become the style of player that I am so I’m really grateful for everywhere that I’ve been.

“I’ve experienced a lot in my career so far and every club’s been different. I’ve been taught different things and they’ve all played a part in making me the player I am today.

“I’m looking forward to getting going and learning more here at Rovers.”

Full name Ian Carlo Poveda-Ocampo, he is able to play for Colombia through his family heritage.

With one south American star in Brereton already at the club, could Rovers have another on their hands?

“We’ve been on the training pitch and  linked up quite well and he’s a great player and I’m excited about playing alongside him. I think we can complement each other well,” Poveda said.

“We have to take each game as it comes, enjoy our football and remain focused throughout the season.”