Leeds United: Connor Roberts spotted on Plymouth pitch as he misses FA Cup showdown
Connor Roberts went through a few pre-match drills for Leeds United ahead of their FA Cup fourth-round replay win over Plymouth at Home Park, according to Beren Cross.
The Leeds Live journalist shared on his personal X account (6 February) that the on-loan Burnley defender who joined the club on transfer deadline day went through some drills with Head of Sports Science Tom Robinson despite being ineligible for Tuesday’s clash (6 February) which saw the Whites grab a 4-1 win.
Roberts was not able to make his debut on Tuesday for the replay, as he was not registered as a member of Farke’s squad for the original tie at Elland Road, which saw Leeds draw 1-1 with the Pilgrims.
Cross posted on Tuesday evening: “Connor Roberts is going through a few drills on the pitch with head of sport science Tom Robinson. Not involved tonight obviously.”
Build some much-needed Leeds fitness
It was perfectly understandable to have Roberts involved with the squad despite being ineligible for the game as Farke intended to have him gel with his teammates and also gain some much-needed fitness training.
The German has certainly received plenty of praise for his man management since arriving the club and this example is just another example of how the German manages to integrate new talents into his squad.
Many managers wouldn’t bother taking a player to an FA Cup away day that they weren’t able to play in, but the German views this as the perfect opportunity to bed the Welshman into the changing room.
Also, Roberts is an experienced individual with plenty of know-how which is incredibly useful to Farke’s squad and it was actually quite crucial he was involved in what was a high-stakes game at Home Park.
The Whites made hard work of their task on Tuesday only winning 3-1 in extra time but their quality and experience in the squad told in the end and it would be no surprise to see how much a player like Roberts will have influenced proceedings without even playing.
Now, the Whites faithful will be looking forward to his debut at Elland Road when Leeds United take on Rotherham at the weekend (10 February).
In other Leeds United news, Carlton Palmer has offered a new automatic promotion verdict following the January transfer window
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