Ilia Gruev, a summer acquisition for the Whites, has been lauded by Leeds United boss Daniel Farke for his excellent performance in training.
The Elland Road manager addressed the 23-year-old’s lack of playing time prior to Leeds’ forthcoming Championship match.
In the last hours of the transfer window, Gruev—who reportedly cost Leeds £4 million—joined Leeds.
The Bulgarian international has not been playing as much for Leeds as he did for Werder Bremen, where he was a regular.
Only three games have Gruev played for the Whites, and all were late substitute appearances.
The midfield player has, in fact, played for his country more often than for his new team since moving.
Farke was asked about Gruev’s lack of game time at Leeds and whether his minutes are dependant on whether Ethan Ampadu is able to play, as well as the possibility of playing alongside him.
“We will see [if he can play with Ampadu],” the Leeds boss said, as per the club’s YouTube channel, ahead of the Stoke clash.
“We have never done this, it is always up to be proven. It can’t be a yes or no, it is up to them to prove they can play together. I have to say, I’m really happy with Ilia.
“He has done fantastic. He came really late with little pre-season, really humble guy. I was tempted because he is training at a top level, to unleash him beforehand.
“But there are others playing well in his position. Let’s be honest, Ethan, Archie, Glen have been superb. My gut feeling is he will play an important role for us.”
Talksport’s view
It’s good to hear Farke sing Gruev’s praises. The player has been impressing behind the scenes and the Leeds boss hasn’t got any issues with him.
However, it’s a shame that he’s been getting so little game time. Admittedly, Ampadu has been in sensational form, and you can’t drop him if he’s fit and available.
It doesn’t look like Gruev and Ampadu are in line to play together, as you need someone with the capability to supply the Leeds front line, and neither can really do that.
Ampadu is currently two yellow cards away from a suspension. If that happens, then perhaps Gruev would come in.
Leave a Reply