Leeds United ‘to make brutal Junior Firpo’ call as BBC broadcaster speaks out
Leeds United may have to make a brutal decision with regards to Junior Firpo ahead of the defender’s contract expiring this summer.
The left-back has been an integral part of Daniel Farke’s set-up this term with the Dominican Republic international being a massive miss when injured.
However, ever since the start of the campaign, the future of the former Barcelona man has been questioned as his contract at Elland Road is nearing its end.
He’s by far and away Leeds’ first-choice left-back, but after the latest claim that has emerged about the defender, his destiny may have already been decided.
Adam Pope doesn’t think Firpo is cut out for the Premier League
Firpo has been a constant feature in Leeds’ starting XI for a number of years now, but during his time in the Premier League, he struggled massively.
Compared to the speed and quality of Championship attackers, the top flight is a whole different ball game.
With the amount that the left-back likes to push forward, he often left the Whites a bit light at the back.
| Team | Position | Points |
| Leeds United | 1st | 76 |
| Sheffield United | 2nd | 73 |
| Burnley | 3rd | 71 |
| Sunderland | 4th | 65 |
This is likely why BBC Leeds broadcaster Adam Pope, while speaking on the Don’t Go To Bed Just Yet Podcast (3 March), singled out the defender as a player who might not be good enough for the top flight.
“I think it’s going to be too much for Junior Firpo in the Premier League,” he said.
“But if there’s a role for him to play in a system that allows him to be full-on Alioski-esque, then maybe.”
Farke may have to look for a new left-back in the summer
It goes without saying that Leeds have been the standout team in the Championship this season.
Their dominance over most of their opponents and the fact they have a three-point gap between themselves and second-placed Sheffield United says all you need to know about their performances this term.
Players such as Dan James and Manor Solomon have been key to their promotion hopes, and even though Firpo has definitely had an impact on their season, he isn’t the right man for the job if Leeds do go up.
Farke will need to create a more than formidable defensive line in order to keep out their Premier League opponents, otherwise they’ll end up coming straight back down.
While losing Firpo on a free transfer would be a massive blow for the West Yorkshire outfit, it might be the best thing for both parties to go their separate ways.