Leeds United play Southampton in the Championship on Saturday at St Mary’s Stadium, and Daniel Farke has already hinted at a significant alteration he may make for the encounter.
Luke Ayling succumbed to fatigue on Saturday, as a third game in six days caused Daniel Farke to drop him from Leeds United‘s starting lineup for the first time in the league. Regardless of how good Jamie Shackleton performed, the vice-captain will almost certainly return for the trip to Southampton.
In Liam Cooper‘s absence, the 32-year-old has once again picked up the leadership slack, and even if his performances haven’t been flawless, it’s evident how highly Farke regards his qualities. Sam Byram is the only other player over 30 who has started more than two league games this season, and he only turned 30 10 days ago, which speaks volumes.
Aside from Byram and Ayling, the average age of the 12 players with the most league minutes is 22. The latter’s job in the dressing room is crucial.
“Luke‘s influence on the group is massive and you can’t overrate it because it’s so, so important,” stated Farke. “Obviously, he’s a good player, but it’s also his ability to lead in the locker room, to share his experience, and to make sure everyone is sharp and aware.”
“Before the game, he talks a lot in the dressing room, which is important because he calms the lads down when needed, gives them confidence, sometimes an arm around the shoulder, but also sometimes a little kick to get them started.” He’s extremely valuable to the team, and I’m glad we have him.
“We need this because we have a lot of young players, but we also need experienced players with this character who live every day like a professional.” Despite being involved in so many battles, he’s still on fire for every game, even if it’s a friendly, and I admire that approach. He brings this attitude into the locker room.”
Shackleton has had to be patient with his opportunities up to this point, especially considering he has scarcely put a foot wrong, but as Leeds travel to one of the division’s promotion favourites, there will be no prizes for guessing where Farke turns at right-back once more.
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