Junior Firpo to fear for Leeds United starting XI spot despite what he did v Hull City
Junior Firpo has overcome some torrid times during his time at Leeds United but that could be shortlived this season.
After recovering from injury at the beginning of the 2023/24 campaign, the 28-year-old became a key figure under Daniel Farke, notching seven assists in 26 Championship appearances.
The left-back worked incredibly well with Crysencio Summerville down the flank, something that has continued with the likes of Wilfried Gnonto and Manor Solomon in front of him.
He also grabbed an assist during Leeds’ 2-0 victory against Hull City on Saturday 31 August, but having entered the final 12 months of his contract, Daniel Farke has a difficult decision to make over the coming weeks.
The manager had few options at full-back last term, with Sam Byram struggling to stay fit for multiple matches at a time and Archie Gray transitioning from his natural midfield position.
That is no longer a worry, having signed Isaac Schmidt from St Gallen this summer, who is currently preparing to make his Leeds debut in front of the passionate fanbase.
Daniel Farke to drop Junior Firpo at Leeds United?
It has not always been smooth sailing for Firpo at Elland Road but he was able to showcase his importance against Hull last weekend. He won the Man of the Match award, as per FotMob, earning an 8.5 rating out of 10.
The Dominican Republic international maintained an impressive 90 per cent passing accuracy, took 82 touches, registered an assist for Joel Piroe’s goal, and won 75 per cent of his tackles.
He also made four clearances, and three recoveries, won 60 per cent of his ground duels, and won 67 per cent of his aerial duels. Despite this, his current contract decision could see Farke take drastic action.
The manager needs players who are ready to fight for the club, with all focus on the Whites, but it could be difficult to fully trust a player who is not set to be at Elland Road beyond next summer.
In other Leeds United news, the Whites were close to PSR limits ahead of crucial transfer developments.
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