Credit: Imago

Daniel Davis

Tue 10 March 2026 17:35, UK

Gabriel Gudmundsson has been nothing short of a revelation since joining Leeds United.

The left-back delivered a near-perfect performance in the Whites’ 3-0 victory against Norwich City in the FA Cup on Sunday after scoring and registering an assist.

Daniel Farke lavished praise on the Swede post-match but admitted he was wary of the defender burning out due to the sheer number of matches he is currently playing.

His relentless work rate makes him perfect for his new, freer role and was on display again at the weekend, but it could come at a cost as he inches toward the fitness red zone.

Gabriel Gudmundsson impressing but was ‘found out’

According to former Leeds boss Simon Grayson, the ace is better suited as a left wing-back rather than a defensive-minded full-back.

Speaking after Gudmundsson’s ‘electric’ performance against Norwich, Grayson told LUTV: “And I think this wing-back role suits him more than playing in a back four at left-back.

“I’m not saying he can’t play left-back, but he just got found out a little defensively when he was playing in that role.

“Now, playing as a left wing-back, he’s got the license and the energy and fitness levels to get up and down because it’s a demanding role, by the way.”

Data from Transfermarkt reveals that Gudmundsson has played 12 of his 30 matches to date in a more advanced role, which complements his strengths.

In the Premier League, he has relished this chance to bomb forward, completing 19 key passes and 34 successful dribbles, as well as taking 18 total shots, via Sofascore.

But he has been just as diligent defensively, making 60 tackles and 21 interceptions. This has allowed Leeds to turn the tide during tight matches and bag invaluable points.

Without a doubt, his £10million switch now looks like one of the bargains of the season.

Leeds must not take Gudmundsson risks

However, Farke himself has admitted that he has no ready-made replacement for Gudmundsson, so it is crucial that he doesn’t push the defender too hard.

His outing against Norwich saw him become the second most-used Leeds player this season, behind only Brenden Aaronson, which potentially risks a serious injury.

Even the slightest injury setback could derail the Whites’ bid for Premier League survival at the worst possible time, following consecutive defeats by Manchester City and Sunderland.

It therefore falls to Farke to make wise decisions with Gudmundsson’s workload in mind.