Paul Robinson believes Leeds United can still gain promotion despite losing Crysencio Summerville and Wilfried Gnonto.
previous Whites goalkeeper Robinson, who is well-connected at his previous club, argued on the latest episode of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast that Leeds should still be promotion contenders if they retain the “nucleus” of their squad together.
Alan Hutton exclusively informed Football Insider [12 June] that he expects Summerville to depart Elland Road this summer for roughly £30 million, with many Premier League clubs interested in the Dutchman.
Gnonto, meantime, is coveted by top-flight clubs, with Football Insider [26 June] reporting that Everton are increasing their interest in the Italian winger.
Leeds are aiming to unload one or two of their marquee players this summer in order to meet financial requirements, with both players eager to depart.
Leeds United can gain promotion without top players – Robinson.
Ex-keeper Robinson believes Summerville and Gnonto can be sold while Leeds United is still pursuing promotion, with the overall spine of Daniel Farke’s side more vital than individual players.
“First of all, I’m not worried – the recruitment will be there,” Robinson told me.
“Leeds United is and always will be a massive club with a strong appeal for big players. They are a club with a global following.
“If they can keep that core of the squad, including Illan Meslier, Archie Gray, and Pascal Struijk, I believe they can afford to let one or two leave.
“If Leeds lose a Gnonto and a Summerville, or one of those with Rutter or Piroe, they’ll still have an excellent chance of being promoted.
“The manager needs to be able to keep that nucleus of the squad and add a bit more flesh on the bones.”
