Signing 34yr Old to Hold midfield? Pundit black out Leeds decision of Signing Former French midfielder revealing solution was right at Daniel Farke’s tip and doesn’t need for any spending.
The Yorkshire club has been forced to explore the free agent market after long-term injuries sidelined Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev.
Cheikhou Kouyate, Francis Coquelin, and Josuha Guilavogui have all been linked with potential moves to Elland Road in recent weeks [BBC], with manager Daniel Farke determined to add a new player.
However, Pope believes Charlie Crew shouldn’t be overlooked, suggesting the 18-year-old deserves a chance in the first team.
“Let’s not underestimate Charlie Crew either. He’s now part of the Welsh national setup and has been involved with the first team here for some time,” Pope said on BBC Radio Leeds (22 October, 18:12). “We don’t know how he’ll perform at this level, but he’s shown a lot of ability with the U21s.
“Expecting him to play for ten games if there’s another long-term injury might be a lot, but that’s why you have an academy and trust it. I’d love to see Crew step up rather than signing someone else.”
**Giving Charlie Crew a Chance Could Benefit Leeds United**
As Pope suggests, promoting Crew before signing a free agent is worth considering for Leeds United.
While the teenager has yet to make his first-team debut, his regular inclusion in matchday squads this season speaks to his talent. Additionally, he made his senior debut for Wales in a 0-0 friendly against Gibraltar in June [ESPN].
Leeds has a strong track record of developing young players, and this could be the right moment for Crew to shine.
Moreover, the club cannot be certain about the fitness of the free agents they’re targeting, as shown by Kouyate’s case. Both Coquelin and Guilavogui, like Kouyate, are in their 30s and have been without a club since their contracts expired in the summer.