Ilia Gruev was greatly missed by Leeds United on Monday night, and Daniel Farke could only confess that his influence is one they cannot live without for very long.
Winning on Easter Monday was even sweeter for Leeds United and Daniel Farke since it was achieved without a player they dearly needed. You don’t know what you’ve got until it’s gone, and Ilia Gruev exemplifies this perfectly.
The Bulgaria international has been a key figure in Leeds United’s 2024 revival. While the strikers are lauded for their goals and the centre-backs for their penalty-box interventions, Gruev has served as a shield.
When asked how much the team missed Gruev following Monday’s triumph, Farke replied, “A lot. First and foremost, Glen [Kamara] had to play virtually the entire 90 minutes despite being physically unprepared, but we are a little short on central midfielders today since we also need Ethan Ampadu in the center-back position. It was critical to have him there.”
Kamara was ill and would have probably left the team on any other occasion, but the manager couldn’t spare him. Ampadu’s importance in defence has been highlighted by his recent form, which necessitates his return.
It was up to Kamara and Archie Gray to do the work Gruev usually does, and while the teenager was eager, Farke says it’s unrealistic to expect the 18-year-old to equal Gruev’s effect.
“Ilia dictates our rhythm and is so good on the ball, also under pressure,” he went on to say. “It’s no coincidence that we lacked quality in possession, particularly in the first half.”
“Archie Gray is fantastic in terms of passion and physicality, but he also needs to adjust to the ideal position to improve our style at such a young age. He was terrific, but in terms of influencing the flow and slowing down or speeding up the game as needed, he can’t be perfect at this age.
“He needs to learn a little. We miss Ilia a lot. He was in top shape, which is why I am even more thrilled. We played today without Ilia and without a truly top-tier right back option.
“Connor Roberts was out, and Willy Gnonto was in top form.” It was complicated today, but we managed to win the game. Ilia can perhaps return shortly. “All of our fingers are crossed.”
The Whites return to action on Saturday at Coventry City, eight days after Farke stated he hoped Gruev’s ankle swelling would subside before the Hull City encounter. There is hope he will make it back, and we will learn more when Farke speaks to the media on Thursday.
