‘There’s no doubt about it,’ says Phil Hay, when asked if the Leeds defender will leave in January.

Phil Hay provides an update on Charlie Cresswell at Leeds United as Southampton speculation emerges on Sunday.

Phil Hay has provided an update on Leeds United defender Charlie Cresswell, who is reportedly being pursued by Middlesbrough and Southampton in January.

According to the Athletic journalist, the 21-year-old will remain at Elland Road until the end of the season.

On December 10, Sun journalist Alan Nixon reported that the Saints and Boro are interested in signing the English centre-back on loan.

“Charlie Cresswell, too, has been left in no doubt that he will be expected to stick around,” Hay wrote on December 10. Farke wants four centre-backs, and Cresswell is one of them, despite having played only a few minutes in the Championship since August and now regularly failing to make the bench. To cut a long story short, Farke can do it all without causing any disruption.”

Keep him.

Despite Cresswell‘s recent limited playing time in the Championship, Daniel Farke‘s intention to keep him suggests a long-term vision for the player’s development.

The manager’s desire for four quality center-backs emphasises the importance of a strong squad to navigate the challenges of a demanding season, particularly in the pursuit of promotion, where consistency and defensive solidity are critical.

Leeds cannot afford to strengthen potential rivals such as Southampton and Middlesbrough by allowing Cresswell to leave on loan.

The manager’s emphasis on minimising disruptions demonstrates a dedication to squad cohesion and harmony.

Cresswell, even if not a regular starter at the moment, is an investment in the future, ensuring the team has the necessary defensive options as it navigates a competitive Championship campaign.

One cannot predict injuries, especially during gruelling periods when matches are played every four days, so having quality depth does not hurt.