YEP journalist baffled by ‘odd’ Ian Poveda decision as Leeds United ace spotted in Colombia
It is “odd” timing for Leeds United man Ian Poveda to be called up to the Colombia squad, according to Yorkshire Evening Post journalist Joe Donnonue.
The winger, who has represented England at youth level, has been called up by the South American nation for the first time.
The 23-year-old attacker has made seven appearances in all competitions this season under Whites manager Daniel Farke.
“Ian Poveda appears to be in Bogota where Colombia are preparing for friendlies against Venezuela (10 Dec) and Mexico (16 Dec) in the United States this week and next,” Donnohue wrote on X. “It’s the first time he’s been named in a Colombia squad. Timing is a bit odd.”
Strange timing
It really is strange timing for Poveda to reportedly be in Bogota for international duty, particularly given how Colombia are only preparing for friendly matches.
The winger has not been a regular under Farke this season, but his constant presence in the Leeds squad suggests he remains a key part of the puzzle at Elland Road.
But that may not be the case for much longer given his latest decision, although an agreement is perhaps in place with the West Yorkshire club.
But given their recent injuries and busy schedule, Farke is in no position to be losing players for reasons such as this.
Having played against Middlesbrough last Saturday (2 December), the Whites travel to Blackburn Rovers on Saturday (9 December), before an away trip to Sunderland on Tuesday (12 December).
Fortunately for the Whites, Farke has a long list of talented wingers to choose from, with Daniel James, Crysencio Summerville, Jaidon Anthony and Wilfried Gnonto among his options.
In other Leeds United news, the Whites want to beat Burnley and Leicester City to sign an international ace from a Championship rival.