Leeds United: ‘Sensational’ Archie Gray to be axed from XI v Watford – BBC pundit
Archie Gray looked “a little bit lost” for Leeds against Millwall in an underwhelming performance, meaning he may be dropped ahead of the Watford clash, according to Neil Redfearn.
Speaking to BBC Radio Leeds (20 September), the former Elland Road gaffer praised the youngster for his excellent start to the season under Daniel Farke but suggested the German may want to give him some rest when the Whites welcome the Hornets to Elland Road (23 September).
Redfearn pointed to Glen Kamara as a potential replacement, with Gray starting every Leeds United game in all competitions so far this season.
Redfearn said, as quoted by the Yorkshire Evening Post (22 September): “I thought he was a little bit under-par at Millwall as well if I’m honest. I thought he did okay. I just think he’s looking a little bit lost in it now, which is normal.
“He’s only young. He’s making his way. I mean, he’s been sensational since he’s come back. But it might be just time to give him a breather. Obviously, you’ve got Glen Kamara on there. I was looking and I was thinking at the end as they were just starting to wilt Leeds, I’m thinking, is Daniel going to bring Glen Kamara on, who’s an experienced sitting midfield player?”
Shattered
While just 17 years old, the amount of football Gray has played this season is astonishing.
Leeds have a relatively large squad, but Farke has opted to start the youngster at every available opportunity. In Farke’s defence, Gray has been exceptional for the Whites this season, but a well-deserved resting may be due.
Across 9 games in all competitions this season, Leeds have played (excluding stoppage time) 810 minutes of football – Gray has played 793 [Transfermarkt]. The workload has been huge and Gray has almost become the victim of his own unexpected form.
While he’s no doubt absolutely relishing the opportunity to get so many minutes at a high level for a club like Leeds, considering last season he didn’t play a single second of senior football, his manager must keep Gray’s fitness and well-being in mind.
The German should consider other options. Why bring in the likes of Kamara, a full international player, unless he’s going to start games? Farke surely has plans for rotations, so Gray may be hoping for a more relaxed Saturday afternoon at Elland Road.
In other Leeds United news, a long-term Elland Road absentee has returned to Thorp Arch.