Daniel Farke has some important decisions to make when Leeds United return from the international break, especially as his midfield options begin to give him a selection headache.
One player who has been waiting patiently for another opportunity has made a compelling case for himself in recent weeks.
He knows what it takes to be a regular under Farke, having established himself as an important part of the team after arriving at Elland Road. An unfortunate injury, however, changed his season, and he has struggled to win back his place ever since.
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Longstaff making a strong case for Leeds starting role
Sean Longstaff was a regular starter for Leeds after joining the club last year, but an injury disrupted his progress and pushed him out of the starting eleven.
The midfielder has never quite reclaimed his place since returning to fitness, with Farke largely sticking to the players who have established themselves in his preferred midfield.
However, Longstaff’s recent performances from the bench have given the Leeds manager plenty to think about. The £15m signing has brought energy, composure and greater purpose to the midfield whenever he has been introduced.
His contribution against Tottenham was another example. Longstaff helped Leeds gain control as they pushed for a winner, offering the sort of energy and quality that can make a difference in tight games.
He has shown that being out of the starting eleven has not affected his willingness to make an impact whenever called upon.
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Farke running out of reasons to overlook £15m signing
The international break could give Longstaff the chance to reset his campaign and make a fresh push for a starting place.
Farke has had understandable reasons to stick with a settled midfield, particularly while Leeds have been trying to find consistency. But Longstaff’s recent displays suggest he should no longer be viewed simply as an option to call upon when a game needs changing.
He was good enough to become a regular starter last season, and there is little reason to believe that the injury which interrupted his progress has permanently changed that.
The challenge now is to give him a proper run in the team and see whether he can rediscover the form that made him such an important player in the first place.
Leeds invested £15m to bring Longstaff to Elland Road. His recent contributions suggest he still has plenty to offer, and Farke may find it increasingly difficult to justify keeping him on the bench.
