Daniel Farke to deploy Sam Byram in new role after Leeds United injury developments
Daniel Farke will look to deploy Sam Byram at centre-back if either Joe Rodon or Pascal Struijk were to pick up an injury or suspension at Leeds United, according to Beren Cross.
The Whites’ options at the heart of defence have become incredibly limited after both Max Wober and Ethan Ampadu were ruled out through injury before the October international break at Elland Road.
While Farke has consistently suggested James Debayo is ready to feature if needed this season, Leeds Live journalist Cross believes the German would instead play the rarely-seen Byram out of position.
Speaking on the Square Ball YouTube channel (7 October, 18:22) he said: “Byram’s probably the way I think he would go.
“He’s mentioned in the past that Byram can do a job there when they’ve been on the bare bones. He’s talked Debayo up publically just to keep his confidence up if the time does come.
“But I think you’re right, I think he would always look to go Byram in the first instance.”
What has happened to Sam Byram at Leeds United and Elland Road?
He may not have played loads of football at centre-back in the past, but Byram has the knowledge and experience to step into the Leeds United backline if he is required to do so in the coming weeks.
The 31-year-old is an experienced Championship campaigner and as the Whites look to win promotion back to the Premier League this term, his know-how will be crucial, even though he’s yet to start a Championship match this term.
Debayo is an incredibly promising young talent, but throwing him into the starting XI in the event of either Struijk or Rodon picking up an injury would be a baptism of fire.
Supporters expect Leeds to challenge for promotion this term and that expectation will remain even if a teenager is deployed at the heart of defence.
Byram will offer a more relaxed and reliable head and that could be exactly what Farke and his side need. Hopefully, neither player will have to be thrown into the fold as it would be a huge blow if the Whites picked up any more long-term knocks.
In other Leeds United news, Eintracht Frankfurt have made a new transfer decision around Whites loanee Rasmus Kristensen
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