Transfer U-turn on the cards for Leeds United ace Ian Poveda after ‘magic’ Daniel Farke comments
Ian Poveda could be set for a transfer U-turn at Leeds United after Daniel Farke praised his “magic” ability and displays in training after the 1-1 draw with Rotherham.
The boss was full of praise for Poveda and his work in training which led to a substitute appearance in the Championship clash, hinting at a possible future for him at Elland Road.
Reports in pre-season suggested the club were assessing his future [Leeds Live, 22 July], but no move materialised due to a lack of interest, and before his appearance against Rotherham, the winger had made just five appearances this season.
Farke spoke to Leeds Live [25 November] following the game as he shared: “It was not a gift today, it was due to really, really good training load and work in training for Ian.
“He looked on it in training, he was creative, he’s one of our most creative players, also capable of winning one-on-one situations. Sometimes when the game is standing, he can provide a spark and a little touch of magic to make something happen with his crazy movements.
“When he’s focused, honest and concentrated in training, he can be there with really good performances. I got a good feeling in training and he didn’t disappoint me.”
As a result of his performances in training, Farke handed Poveda a chance to impress with 20 minutes from the bench, and although the boss seemed pleased with what he did, the performance was hardly eye-catching.
In 20 minutes of football, Poveda made eight passes, albeit at a 100% success rate, but lost the ball four times, committed a foul, had a 0% crossing accuracy and a 0% aerial duel success rate. His record from ground duels was not much better, winning just one of five attempted. [Sofascore]
In six Championship appearances so far this season, averaging 25 minutes per game, Poveda has failed to record a goal or assist. His average of 0.3 key passes per game and 0.3 shots per game display a lack of impact in the final third.
On top of that, a 0% aerial duel success rate across all six games, and a 52% overall duel success rate, with an average of 0.5 tackles and 0.2 times winning possession show his disappointing stats at both ends of the pitch. [Sofascore]
So, while Farke was full of praise for the winger, suggesting a possible stay for him at Elland Road, his performances will still need to see some improvement if he wants to stamp his mark on this squad.
In other Leeds United news, Michael Dawson was stunned by an incident in Leeds v Rotherham.