Phil Hay: Alioski has shown signs of frustration at Leeds
Phil Hay thinks there is a good chance Gjanni Alioski will leave Leeds United in the summer.
The Athletic journalist says he has kept a close eye on the 29-year-old’s attitude in recent weeks, and thinks the signs are not good.
In a Q&A for The Athletic, Hay wrote, “In the press box we’ve been watching Alioksi’s body language recently.
“Maybe we’re seeing something that isn’t there but since Christmas, there’s been an air of frustration in him and his performances.
“Leeds want a new left-back in the summer and Alioski hasn’t agreed a new deal yet.
“There has to be a fairly high chance of him leaving if he gets good offers elsewhere.”
Future in doubt
Alioski has started 18 of the 25 Premier League games this season, mainly down to extensive injury issues elsewhere.
It’s unlikely he’d be in the XI if there was a full squad.
In recent games, Alioski has seen his game time reduced, with Stuart Dallas starting in his place and youngster Niall Huggins even replacing him against Arsenal.
We can understand if he is frustrated, especially as Leeds are targeting a new left-back in the summer. It’s not a big vote of confidence.
However, we trust Marcelo Bielsa and if the Macedonian has not done enough to start then he deserves to be on the bench.
Also, we have seen how astute recruitment can improve the side, with Raphinha and Rodrigo performing well since arriving.
Robin Koch and Diego Llorente have also shown bright signs, though have not played enough to make a real difference.
To be fair to Alioski, left-back isn’t his natural position, and if that’s his only option of playing time, and he’s behind Stuart Dallas and likely to fall further back in the summer, you can understand the frustration.
That’s a matter for him though. It’s team before self at Leeds and as much as we respect what he’s done for us, it could be time for him to move on if he wants regular starts next season.
He won’t be short of offers after performing so well in the Premier League.
In other Leeds United news, ‘They could be in trouble’ – Michael Owen predicts ‘Weak’ Leeds clash v Aston Villa.