New hybrid role mooted for Archie Gray at Leeds United after he’s caught out
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 is “clever enough” to perform at right-back for Leeds despite being caught out, according to Paul Robinson.
The 17-year-old’s natural position is in midfield, but Daniel Farke has opted to play the youngster at right-back numerous times this season. Gray is among Leeds’ most frequently played players in the Championship, but his more defensive performances have been suspect.
Farke first started Gray at right-back against Bristol City in early October and has persisted with him in this position, conceding four goals in three matches. The England youth star was not at fault for all of these goals, but many have questioned why he has moved position after such dominant performances in midfield.
Robinson backed Gray to improve in this position despite being dropped entirely for Leeds’ 4-1 win against Huddersfield Town. He noted Farke’s desire to make him a hybrid midfielder from right-back, as is common in the Premier League.
Speaking exclusively to MOT Leeds News, Robinson said: “The manager clearly knows that Gray is a utility player. If he wants to bring Ilia Gruev in there but doesn’t want to lose Archie Gray, I think there’s an element of that hybrid midfield role as well.
“We see that so often in the Premier League, we see with Rico Lewis, John Stones, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and I think there’s an element that the manager thinks at that right-back position, Gray can do that.
“He’s a clever enough footballer to do it. Defensively, a couple of times, he gets caught out but it gives him that opportunity to push into midfield and play that role.
“I don’t know what the manager’s thinking is, but he’s clearly a player that the manager likes and admires and wants to get into his starting lineup, wherever he plays.”
In other Leeds news, a pundit fears ‘admiring glances’ for an Elland Road ace after seeing a message sent to 49ers Enterprises.