Daniel Farke shocked by Ilia Gruev developments at Leeds United
Daniel Farke has lauded Ilia Gruev after his return from injury for Leeds United in the 1-0 win against Harrogate on Saturday.
The Whites limped to a 1-0 win at Elland Road in the FA Cup third round on 11 January, as Gruev appeared for the closing stages in his first appearance since 1 October after a serious knee injury.
Farke admitted via the Yorkshire Evening Post’s Graham Smyth that he was surprised at how sharp the Bulgarian international had looked at Thorp Arch before his return.
“To be honest I’m not sure if I would involve him in a league game,” he said.
“I was half hoping there was a chance to introduce him and give him his confidence back.
“It was no gift, he had one or two training sessions together with us at least in parts and he looked so sharp. I was really surprised. He’s worked unbelievably professionally with our rehab trainer. He looked ready.
“A big boost to have him back, he was priceless before his injury. He looked so sharp this week and I wanted to use his momentum a little bit [but] I don’t expect him ready for 90 minutes in two days.”
Ilia Gruev back in the frame for Leeds United
Leeds United went into the 2024-25 season with the smallest squad in the Championship – comprising just 23 senior players.
It meant injuries could have hit Farke and his side harder than those towards any of their promotion rivals, but they have largely escaped without too many blows.
That is, of course, apart from both Gruev and skipper Ethan Ampadu – the two midfield anchors suffered long-term injuries within days of one another.
However, Leeds pounced quickly to sign free agent Josuha Guilavogui – who made his first start at Elland Road on Saturday – and saw summer arrivals Joe Rothwell and Ao Tanaka excel in the middle of the park.
The depth in quality has seen Leeds edge their noses ahead of the rest in the league so far this term, and the duo’s respective returns can only serve to make Farke’s arsenal stronger – not to mention save a few million pounds in this month’s market.
In other Leeds United news, another EFL club have joined the race to sign this Elland Road star.
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