Daniel Farke has earned praise for his say in Leeds United’s recruitment since he arrived at Elland Road, with Gabriel Gudmundsson just one example of Leeds pulling off a bargain.
While in the Championship, Farke masterminded some real gems. Ao Tanaka for £3.4m, Ilia Gruev for just £4m and Jayden Bogle, perhaps the pick of all of his signings, bought for just £5m from Sheffield United.
Farke has been responsible for some stunning signings, including Ethan Ampadu for £7m and Joe Rodon initially on loan, before signing permanently for £10m. The German gaffer certainly deserves big praise.
Leeds fans were left underwhelmed by the club’s business in the summer, which Robbie Evans described as a good window with a bad end. But one summer signing with pass marks is Gabriel Gudmundsson.
Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty ImagesDaniel Farke heaps praise on Gabriel Gudmundsson’s Leeds start
Gudmundsson might have endured a dismal spell with Sweden recently, but in a Leeds shirt, the left-back has been excellent. That is, even if he has been largely unlucky on a couple of occasions so far this term.
His freak own goal against Fulham resulted in a defeat, with Gudmundsson failing to prevent the tears in the dressing room, and then his slip that led to Tottenham’s winner. But otherwise, he has been excellent.
Hard-working, technically sound, defensively solid. Gudmundsson has ended Leeds’ long-term issue at left-back and Farke provided an update on the defender after his knock against West Ham last Friday.
“Thank god, it was just a bruise like a dead leg, it was pretty sore during the game and he couldn’t sprint. That’s settled. Back to full fitness and available. He’s been excellent, couple of unlucky moments.
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“But credit to his character, he’s always come back stronger and delivered top performances. So far, a key player. We’re very happy with Gabi,” Farke said, ahead of Saturday’s clash against Brighton at The Amex.
What Gudmundsson is lacking since he made Leeds move…
Ask any Leeds fan and the majority will say they are delighted the club managed to sign the Sweden star from Lille. Especially, for such a bargain price of just £10m. He was in the final year of his deal in France.
But if there is one thing that Gudmundsson is lacking, it is his ability to score goals or create them. While Jayden Bogle has netted this season in the Cup and laid on an assist, Gudmundsson is yet to do so.
If Gudmundsson can add one thing to his game, it is the ability to score or create goals. But Leeds have only managed nine Premier League goals so far. Further down the line, Gudmundsson may find the net.