Andoni Iraola makes Jaidon Anthony admission as Leeds United decision looms
Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has made a Jaidon Anthony admission and has suggested he has struggled at Leeds United due to competition in his position.
The Englishman joined on loan in September 2023 to add some Championship promotion-winning experience to Daniel Farke’s squad.
It hasn’t worked out for Anthony who has struggled for game time this season and a permanent move now looks unlikely.
Speaking with the Daily Echo (15 May), Iraola has suggested that Leeds’ other options have bettered the winger and he will now return to Bournemouth.
He said: “It was a difficult decision, for sure, for him. He has also gone to a place where they have very, very good wingers. They are making the difference, Summerville, Gnonto, James. He has strong opposition for minutes.
“But I think he’s a very good player and I am looking forward to working again with him.”
Should Leeds United sign Jaidon Anthony permanently?
Anthony looked like one of Bournemouth’s best players across pre-season but they opted for a swap deal for Luis Sinisterra.
As a result, there was excitement when he made the move to Elland Road given he had won promotion to the Premier League in the past.
With the form of Summerville and the quality that Gnonto and James possess, it has been difficult to demand minutes this season.
According to FotMob, Anthony has taken part in just 479 Championship minutes where he has contributed to just one goal.
His stats have to be taken with a pinch of salt due to his lack of game time but he has shown some positive signs.
84.6 per cent pass accuracy, 84.74 touches and 2.07 successful dribbles per 90, all point towards a useful player under Farke.
It just hasn’t gone his way and players at the club on a permanent basis have been favoured.
Leeds may look into him should they stay in the Championship but signing him in the summer transfer window feels unlikely.
In other Leeds news, the club have slapped a considerable price tag on one of their loanees.
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