Daniel Farke has questions to answer on youth chances at Leeds amid Thorp Arch statements
Daniel Farke risks damaging the development of youth talents at Leeds United.
The Whites’ academy has been a major success both on the pitch and off the pitch in recent years, as Thorp Arch is where potential superstars are made.
Farke has been open and honest about his desire to see youngsters succeed at Elland Road, with multiple teenagers sealing loan exits in the winter window, including the highly-rated Harry Gray.
However, despite what the Leeds boss has previously said on Thorp Arch impressions, he’s not backed anything up with action.
That was never clearer than the squad he picked for the FA Cup win over Birmingham City on Sunday.
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No Leeds youngsters included in Birmingham City clash
The Whites edged past Birmingham City through penalties after being taken to extra time with the scoreline 1-1 after 120 minutes of play.
Farke was aware that the clash could go into the depths of extra time against the in-form Championship side, and that he may have needed to rely on some fearless young talent to get Leeds over the line.
However, not a single Thorp Arch prospect was included in the matchday squad, as it would be interesting to hear the thoughts of the 49ers and what their objectives are for youth development
Though Gray is the biggest name in Leeds’ academy, his success out on loan with Rotherham proves that he isn’t the only one who can make an immediate impact at senior level, especially with high-quality players around them.
Farke needs to be careful because he has yet to show much trust in these players, as some should have at least been on the bench against Birmingham.
What has Daniel Farke said about youngsters chances of playingyoungsters’?
The Leeds boss has regularly admitted times when youngsters have been given the call-up to impress in first-team training, with many consistently involved.
After the Whites signed youth talent Leonard Ngenge in the winter window, Farke was asked about the centre-back’s chances of playing.
Farke claimed, as quoted by Inside Futbol in January: “Everyone who signs a contract for us, for Leeds United, also has the chance to be involved.”
So, unless no player is impressing in training sessions, then the German head coach is just pulling the wool over people’s eyes and giving young players false hope.
Maybe it’ll motivate them to work harder, who knows? But it’s certainly bold of the boss to make statements like these and not back them up with evidence.
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