Bristol City coach admission shows Daniel Farke magic now really rubbing off at Leeds United
Leeds United manager Daniel Farke outwitted opposite number Nigel Pearson with his team selection against Bristol City on Saturday (7 October).
With one hand tied behind his back due to injury issues, Farke went with Archie Gray at right-back in a move that caught out the opposition.
It had been widely expected before the game that Farke would use a centre-back out wide if needed, but instead it was central midfielder Gray.
As Bristol City assistant Curtis Fleming admitted to reporters after the game at Elland Road, it was a move the visiting side did not see coming.
Phil Hay posted on Twitter (7 October) shortly after full-time: “Bristol City assistant Curtis Fleming said they didn’t anticipate Gray at right-back.
“Even when the team was announced, they thought it might be [Ethan] Ampadu there. Also didn’t feel that City asked enough questions of Gray.”
Gray has previously played in that position for England at age-grade level, but it still came as a surprise when the team sheet dropped at 2pm.
In fact, it was only when the players were lining up for kick-off that it became clear he would be the one tasked with slotting in at right-back.
Farke has made a point of players being able to plug gaps when necessary, particularly central midfielders covering full-backs who bomb forward.
The German may only be a few months into his reign, though already his magic touch is beginning to rub off on those in the squad.
Farke attempted to play down the move after the game, stating it is ultimately down to the players to perform, but he found a solution to a problem that could have cost Leeds.
And on the basis of the Whites being fifth in the Championship after the 2-1 win over the Robins, it appears Farke can do no wrong right now.
In other Leeds United news, a first-team player must learn his lesson after what happened on Friday (6 October).