Archie Gray tipped for Leeds United return v Southampton amid ‘fear’ verdict
We’re delighted to welcome former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson as our exclusive columnist as each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at Leeds United …
Archie Gray could return to the starting 11 for Leeds United’s clash against Southampton, according to Paul Robinson.
The 17-year-old has emerged as a Daniel Farke favourite this season, starting the opening nine fixtures in all competitions for the Whites, but was handed a well-deserved rest in their 3-0 victory over Watford on 23 September, being replaced by Glen Kamara.
Leeds take the trip to St Mary’s Stadium on Saturday (30 September) to face off against Russell Martin’s struggling Saints, who sit in 15th place in the Championship table, far below the fans’ expectations.
Robinson claims that it is a “really, really good time” to take the trip to the south coast as Leeds will have no “fear” of the Saints and expects very few changes except the youngster returning to the side.
Speaking exclusively to MOT Leeds News, Robinson said: “I could see Archie Gray coming back into the side, but Farke doesn’t need to tinker too much. I was there for the away game at Hull and I thought they were excellent. They were unfortunate to get the man sent off, but they held on for a very valuable point.
“You could see the togetherness and the willingness not to get beaten. That’s a really good trait to be able to see.
“I suspect the team will be the same because they were so impressive against Watford. 3-0 certainly didn’t flatter them, it could have and should have probably been more.
“But when things aren’t broken, don’t try and fix them. They’re going to Southampton which is not a difficult place to go to for an away team. It’s a nice stadium and it’s a nice place to play.
“Russell Martin is under huge pressure there as they’re not playing particularly well. Southampton are another big club like Leeds to come out of the Premier League and they’re finding it just a little bit harder to settle in the Championship.
“Now is a really, really good time for Leeds to play them. I don’t think St Mary’s holds any fear for Leeds at all this weekend. I’m really optimistic about the next few weeks for Leeds United and where they could finish the season.”
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