Joe Gelhardt to have last laugh at Leeds United as Elland Road showdown edges closer
Leeds United loanees Joe Gelhardt and Cody Drameh have both enjoyed profitable loan spells to date and the pair are set to face off in the Championship playoffs.
Drameh’s Luton Town travel to the Stadium of Light to face off against Sunderland in the first leg of their semi-final clash. The 21-year-old right-back has been excellent for the Hatters since moving to Bedfordshire, with Rob Edwards utilising him in a wing-back role.
He’s gained plenty of plaudits during his time at Kenilworth Road and rightfully so. Gelhardt has also been impressive whilst up in the North East. The striker endured a tough start to life with the Black Cats but has grown into his role in Tony Mowbray’s side.
The former Wigan man now has six goals and assists, which isn’t a terrible return considering he only made the move to the club in January.
On Saturday 13 May, the pair will go head to head in the North East as Luton and Sunderland look to book their spot in the playoff final.
With Leeds struggling and looking like a likely candidate to be playing Championship football next season, there’s a chance for both players to leapfrog the Whites back into the Premier League.
If Luton or Sunderland get promoted, there’s a good chance they will be eager to sign both players permanently. The importance of this fixture cannot be lost on either player.
It’s hard to call a winner, but with Luton in excellent form and superior away from home, Drameh could well be the player who returns to the top flight before Gelhardt, and, ironically, Leeds United.
Either Gelhardt or Drameh could well have the last laugh after being sent out on loan in the January window.
In other Leeds United news, the club may now face a losing battle to keep their star player at Elland Road beyond the summer transfer window.