Leo Hjelde to play Leeds United role for Daniel Farke despite Sky Sports update on exit talks
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…
Paul Robinson has backed young Leeds United stars to play a role in their promotion bid next season but cautions that the squad must be moulded in new manager Daniel Farke’s image.
The likes of Leo Hjelde, Joe Gelhardt and Jamie Shackleton have earned their stripes in the Championship after their successful loan spells in the second tier last season.
But amid speculation that Serie A side Salernitana are in talks to sign Hjelde [Sky Sports Italy], perhaps these assets are not required in the short-term and are therefore surplus to requirements.
Robinson has suggested that these players could play a part in their Championship campaign, but Farke must have control of the squad build amid a turbulent transfer window.
Speaking exclusively to MOT Leeds News, Robinson said: “Farke knows what he wants, and he knows what he needs to get out of this league. I think it’s important that with him, they allow him to build his own squad.
“The managerial appointment has taken long enough and I think he would have obviously liked to take the hot seat sooner to sort his squad out. The young players like Hjelde who have Championship experience could be part of his squad. Championship experience is vital next year.
“I think that’s why the manager was appointed, to get out of that league. He knows how to build a squad. The biggest thing is to allow the manager to do that. We know we’re waiting for a full-time sporting director, but with Victor Orta last time, having the ear of the owner and maybe the manager not having full say on the signings.
“It’s important for the manager to mould the squad himself. He’s got a full preseason to do that, but I think there’s going to be a lot of comings and goings by the end of the window.”
In other Leeds United news, a former controversial Elland Road defender could return to the club despite a 2017 conflict.