Daniel Farke and Leeds United could and should have used this opportunity to prepare for the new Premier League season.
Instead, they remain in England’s second division, preparing for an opening-day showdown with newly promoted Portsmouth.
The truth is, Leeds fans have been here before; they understand the agony of losing a Championship play-off final and the impact it can have on a team.
When the final whistle went at Wembley versus Southampton, one of the first things on the supporters’ minds would have been. Who will leave?
There were clear names on the table, such as Crysencio Summerville, who had an exceptional season on the flanks.
Perhaps Georginio Rutter would go to the escape door or Gnonto.
As of now, they are still Leeds players, and there is still a chance they will depart because there is still time before the window closes.
However, one item of transfer activity that Leeds has already completed is the sale of emerging young prospect Archie Gray to Spurs.
Agbonlahor believes Gray ‘would have wanted’ to continue at Elland Road, but financial constraints forced the sale.
With Farke looking for rapid promotion ahead of the next season, Agbonlahor warned Leeds that they must be’very careful’ since they may not receive the promotion they seek because such crucial players are going, as he told talkSPORT (02/07/24 at 7:30 am).
Archie Gray departs Leeds United to join Tottenham Hotspur.
“They are a selling club, aren’t they,” Agbonlahor joked, adding salt to Leeds fans’ wounds.
“I’m not starting Leeds fans. I’m joking. No, listen, you don’t want to lose one of your rising stars, do you? However, they are experiencing financial difficulties. They felt the impact of not being promoted. They have to sell, and they are receiving the figures we’re talking about.
Leeds will not be promoted if they sell their finest players: “I understand. I got it. However, Leeds must sell to meet financial obligations. I agree (sell to someone else). But I’m sure Archie Gray, despite his desire to stay at Leeds, wants to play Premier League football. It’s the same as any other young player. It may be your team, and you are Leeds through and through, but the opportunity to play for a major Premier League side is too good to pass up. Then Leeds must proceed with caution; if they begin selling all of their finest players, it will be extremely tough to be promoted the following season.”
The return of Joe Rodon
Despite the doom and gloom, one significant plus is the return of centre-back Joe Rodon after his outstanding maiden season in Yorkshire.
Yes, Leeds fans will be disappointed that one of their own has left, but at least the team remains formidable defensively.
Rodon will not only add dependability and regularity, but he will also provide the much-needed vocal presence in the locker room.
Now it’s just a matter of keeping as many guys on board as possible, since you know offers will come in from all sides.
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