Don Goodman expects “outstanding” Connor Roberts to replace Archie Gray as right-back for Leeds United after signing from Burnley.
Roberts, a Wales international, joined at Elland Road on deadline day last week on loan until the end of the season.
The 28-year-old is set to make his debut against Rotherham United on Saturday (10 February), after been ineligible for the previous two games.
If that happens, Gray, a central midfielder by trade, will most likely be forced to leave the squad.
Goodman told MOT Leeds News that Leeds United made a wise decision in making the transfer. Young Archie Gray has performed admirably at right-back, but he is not a right-back.
“I believe he has been vulnerable once or twice against crafty wide players running at him – it has happened only a few times. That is not the case in Leeds, where Connor Roberts is a conventional right-back.
“He’s also a progressive right-back; a modern right-back capable of scoring and assisting. You only have to look at Burnley last season to see how great and excellent he was.
“To be honest, I think he’s a great signing for Leeds United. It is now his responsibility to contribute to the squad on a consistent basis.
“He’ll have to show an awful lot in training and then in games when he’s given game time in order to do that, so it’s a win-win for Leeds and it’s a win-win for Connor Roberts.”
Daniel Farke faces a crucial selection decision for Leeds United.
Gray, who has excelled in his role as right-back, has been linked with a move to the Premier League.
The 17-year-old made his central midfield debut against Cardiff City on the first weekend and has since played nine games in that position.
However, according to WhoScored, he has started 18 games at right back and has been a regular there for several months.
As Goodman points out, Gray has been caught off guard at times, which is quite fair considering his age and the fact that he is playing out of position.
Roberts was the league’s top right-back last season and is clearly good enough to play consistently for a Premier League club, even if Vincent Kompany disagrees.
Daniel Farke faces a tough selection issue as Leeds United prepare to play Rotherham United in a Yorkshire derby.
The experienced defender was not hired to give backup between now and the end of the season, and he may well start against Rotherham.
If that happens, Gray will be in contention to start in holding middle. At the same time, Daniel Farke will not want to change a winning recipe too much.
It creates a selection conundrum, something the German coach will undoubtedly relish.
