Leeds United have undergone a lot of changes since they were relegated to the Championship. Over three years later, the Whites have won promotion and look like a completely different side.
The decision to hire Daniel Farke continues to be one of the more impressive decisions by the ownership.
Following Marcelo Bielsa’s departure, fans always knew it was going to be difficult to find a replacement. Leeds went through Jesse Marsch, Javi Gracia and even hired Sam Allardyce in the interim.
Farke’s coaching and a very impressive recruitment policy has seen the team land on their feet in the Premier League.
The club can now boast of key players like James Trafford, Tarik Muharemovic, Joe Rodon, Ethan Ampadu, Anton Stach and Dominic Calvert-Lewin.
Three former Leeds United players fans would love to see back at Elland Road
These recent signings have been great, and represent the future of the club.
But sometimes fans yearn to see former players who captured their hearts at Elland Road. It was just a few seasons ago that the fanbase desperately wanted Kalvin Phillips to return.
That never really worked out as the midfielder is now trying to rebuild his career.
The Leeds Press looks at some former Leeds United players that fans would love to see at the club again.
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Archie Gray
Archie Gray. Credit: IMAGO
The most recent departure that shattered the hearts of fans at Elland Road.
After an incredible breakthrough campaign, Gray was tipped to have the world at his feet. His progression into the first team was impressive and the football he played was lovely to watch.
Unfortunately for him, when Leeds failed to win promotion, he had to make the switch to Spurs in the Premier League.
Fans would love to have him back to partner Ethan Ampadu and Anton Stach in the middle of the park.
Charlie Cresswell
Charlie CRESSWELL
Credit: Imago Images
Another player who left after impressing the fans as a youngster.
Cresswell had all the makings of a future Leeds United star; his loan spell at Millwall only proved that he was one of the best defenders in England in his age group.
Sadly for him, he never really got the chance to show that in the first team. For some reason, Daniel Farke was not a big fan; opting to play other players over the youngster.
The centre back was eventually sold to Tolouse where he increased his stock dramatically, and is now widely regarded as one of the best young defenders in Europe.
A back three including Rodon and Cresswell would be a lovely sigh to see.
Raphinha
Raphinha
Credit: Imago
The Brazilian is arguably the highest profile departure from Elland Road in years.
Raphinha arrived at the club as a relatively unknown talent, but the impact he made was sensational. At times he was a one-man attack for the Whites, and his contributions helped win countless games.
When Barcelona came calling, there was little to do to stop it.
The forward has gone up another level since moving to Spain; producing Ballon d’Or calibre campaigns since.
Imagine a Leeds attack with this version of Raphinha; the Whites would be an unstoppable force in the Premier League.
