Alious
Leeds United manager Daniel Farke faces challenging team selection decisions ahead of the upcoming match against Preston North End. In recent weeks, Farke has skillfully rotated his squad, making multiple changes to the lineup, including some forced adjustments with Max Wober and Sam Byram’s return. The reintroduction of Mateo Joseph and Wilfried Gnonto has notably strengthened the team, culminating in what many consider their most impressive victory of the season against Middlesbrough.
The current squad depth presents both an opportunity and a challenge for Farke. While each starting player will be eager to maintain their position following the strong performance, the manager must carefully balance player selection to prevent potential frustration among those not getting consistent playing time.
A particular point of discussion is the status of winger Largie Ramazani. Despite being part of what many consider the Championship’s most impressive group of wingers, Ramazani has recently been marginalized, receiving only limited minutes through brief substitute appearances since recovering from injury. Former pundit Neil Redfearn even suggests that all four of Leeds’ wingers are of Premier League caliber.
Ramazani’s previous performances are noteworthy. During six starts, he demonstrated significant impact, scoring three goals and providing one assist. The team won four of those matches, drew twice, and never lost. His ability to create opportunities out of difficult situations could be crucial, especially when the team struggles to break down defensive opponents.
Interestingly, Leeds’ away match statistics provide compelling evidence for Ramazani’s importance. The team has remained unbeaten in matches where he starts, with impressive performances including goals at Cardiff and Norwich City, and a strong showing in a draw at Sunderland. Perhaps most tellingly, despite playing fewer away matches with Ramazani, the team’s goal-scoring output has been nearly equivalent.
Farke faces a strategic decision: reintegrate Ramazani into the starting lineup, potentially replacing Dan James or Wilfried Gnonto, to ensure he’s match-fit for the demanding festive period and to leverage his proven match-changing capabilities.
Alious
