Leeds United have seen a significant change in the squad from the end of last season. This transfer window has been a crucial period as the club have added depth and quality in many areas.
The attack is one part of the squad that has seen some drastic change so far. Last season, Joel Piroe was the first choice striker while Patrick Bamford and Mateo Joseph provided backup. Now, Joseph is out on loan in Spain, and Bamford is not in the manager’s plans this season. To replace them, Leeds have brought in Lukas Nmecha and Dominic Calvert-Lewin; two top players with experience at this level.
Fans will hope their play can translate into goals during the campaign.
QUIZ: Can you name the missing player from these 10 famous Leeds United photos?
Daniel Farke speaks on Leeds United star
Credit: Imago
On Tuesday night, Dominic Calvert-Lewin made his first appearance for Leeds United. He came off the bench in the second half when the Whites were looking for a goal. Unfortunately, he was guilty of missing three big chances at the death, and the game eventually went to a penalty shoot out that Leeds lost.
Farke spoke on the chances of the former Everton man leading the line on Saturday:
”Everyone wishes for a dream start, he had the chances to score a winner but football is not like dreamland. Pleased with 40 minutes under his belt. A long summer break, 12 days in team training and you can see him grow from day to day. We build his fitness, to be resilient against injury. Taking part in all team training but we forced him to do additional work. Important 40 minutes, quite liked he showed instinct to be where the striker should be. I wouldn’t judge it negatively in any way that he missed, it would have been a dream start. International break will help.”
Should Dominic Calvert-Lewin be the first choice striker?
Considering that the only striker at the club to score a goal has been Lukas Nmecha, it should be an open competition for that slot. Joel Piroe has not showed any signs of continuing his good form from the Championship. Nmecha has been lively in his cameos, while Calvert-Lewin’s first appearance showed that he still has a bit of quality.
Ultimately, it will come down to who Daniel Farke sees as the best option.
It might be an idea to play two strikers. Give the opposing defence something to think about. Up to five players can be subbed.