Lucas Perri to look away as Leeds United reveal will condemn him to bench for rest of season
Lucas Perri will struggle to get back into the Leeds United starting line-up following the recent performances of Karl Darlow.
Perri was replaced by the Welshman between the sticks back in January, after several high-profile mistakes that cost Daniel Farke’s side.
The Brazilian was given an opportunity against Birmingham City in the FA Cup earlier this month and put in a man-of-the-match display.
However, Darlow still returned to the side for the 1-1 draw with Aston Villa on Saturday, and seems to be Farke’s first choice for the Premier League.
Karl Darlow has had positive impact on Leeds
Perri was dropped for Leeds’ FA Cup Third Round tie against Derby County in the middle of January, with Darlow playing every single Premier League game since then.
In that time, the Whites have won two, drawn two and lost one game in the top-flight, moving six points clear of the relegation zone as a result.
According to Jibber Jabber on X, barring the 4-0 defeat to Arsenal, Darlow has prevented 0.86 goals in total, validating Farke’s decision.
Of course, excluding the Arsenal loss from these statistics looks more favourable for the 35-year-old, given he made a big mistake in that game.
However, it is clear that Darlow is more than capable of being a top Premier League shot-stopper and has fewer lapses in concentration than Perri.
Perri could be left on the bench for the rest of the season now, with Farke in favour of giving Darlow a run in the team.
Read more: Karl Darlow has been recognised for his Leeds heroics this season
Leeds must make Karl Darlow decision
Darlow’s current contract at Leeds expires at the end of this season, and there is still no word on any negotiations.
The Welshman moved to Elland Road from Newcastle United in the summer of 2023, penning a three-year deal.
That original agreement will come to an end following the conclusion of the 2025-26 campaign, which could see Darlow depart.
However, if the Leeds shot-stopper continues to impress in the coming months, then there is no reason why he won’t be offered new terms.
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