By George Overhill

26th Jul, 2022 | 9:40pm

Leeds United youngster Cody Drameh makes brave decision as transfer window end nears

Leeds United full-back Cody Drameh intends to remain at Elland Road and fight for his place in the squad, according to Leeds Live.

The talented youngster was assumed to be headed for the exit when the club signed Red Bull Salzburg right-back, and former Jesse Marsch player, Rasmus Kristensen earlier in the window.

Drameh had pushed for a loan to Cardiff in January when frustrated at his opportunities with the Whites, and backed up his decision by shining in South Wales, winning the Bluebirds’ Player of the Season.

With veteran Luke Ayling also due to return from injury before too long it was expected that the 20-year-old would take up the option of an exit to one of the interested clubs in the Championship again, either on loan or even permanently.

But Beren Cross writes in the latest report: “LeedsLive understands, as it stands, Drameh intends to remain with United beyond the end of the current transfer window and fight for his place.

“There is a resignation Kristensen will begin the campaign as first choice, but Drameh is backing himself to take his chance if and when it comes.”

Strong-willed

Drameh staying in Marsch’s squad is a surprise but could be a real boost, especially with the unresolved issue at left-back still a priority.

The young full-back has a history of making bold decisions and backing it up after his excellent loan spell with Cardiff.

He had gone against the wishes of former boss Marcelo Bielsa at the time, but to pick up his temporary employer’s player of the year award off the back of just half a season shows the ability that he has.

Kristensen is a strong addition, especially thanks to his familiarity with Marsch, but Drameh could have been excused for feeling hard done by to return from seemingly having proven himself ready only to have United quickly buy a new man at his position.

Ayling’s injury, coupled with the long-term absence of Stuart Dallas, looked to have opened the door for the junior man at just the right time, as he was in the ascendency.

But he may still be in position to take advantage of the situation if he can cement his place as the Dane’s back-up on the right, and potentially even do a job on the left for the time being.

He seems to have to go a few extra miles to show that he deserves his chance, but if he does finally get it, there is a distinct possibility that he will prove to the club what they were missing.

If he can force his way into the first-team reckoning with anywhere near the success he forced his way into first-team football altogether last year then this could be hugely beneficial for the club.

In other Leeds United news, a €60million total value part-exchange offer shows that the Whites can get their striker target this summer.