Leeds United have had an incredible start to the calendar year of 2024.
The Whites have won seven of their eight matches in all competitions, with last night’s 4-1 extra-time success over Plymouth Argyle removing the sole blemish.
Before Christmas, Daniel Farke had largely agreed on his starting lineup. Even with the busiest of schedules, he was hesitant to adjust it, which forced some marginal players to remain patient.
However, the New Year has created an opportunity for a number of other squad members to flourish, including Patrick Bamford, Junior Firpo, and Ilia Gruev.
Despite the former two’s goals and assists, Gruev has stood out the most, with a streak of excellent performances in the heart of midfield.
Gruev has made himself undroppable in Leeds.
Gruev started only two games in his first four months at Leeds after joining from Werder Bremen for £5 million at the end of August, with the degree of his skill still unknown.
However, since Leeds’ 3-0 win over Birmingham City on New Year’s Day, Gruev has played 90 minutes or more, and his performances have only improved.
According to Sofa Score, his pass success percentage has fallen below 90% in just one of those games, but his ability to win the ball back through tackles and duels is possibly his most amazing quality.
Last night, with Leeds looking for a winner, Gruev was a one-man midfield in stoppage time and extra time. Plymouth was about to launch a counter-attack after Joe Gelhardt hit the post, but a stunning sliding tackle from the 23-year-old stopped them in their tracks.
All of these components of his game have made him simply unstoppable at Leeds for the remainder of the season, but Farke now faces some difficult options.
When Pascal Struijk returns, he is expected to resume his role as left center-back. Ethan Ampadu will then be pushed back into the middle, but Gruev and Glen Kamara have created an excellent relationship.
When Connor Roberts is fully integrated into the team, Archie Gray becomes an option in centre midfield. Farke is extremely spoilt for choice.
