Over the years, some Leeds United fans have been skeptical about how Daniel Farke has treated some young players at the club. After this latest news, some may look at him differently.
No one can say Farke is against young players; if anything he is one of the recent Leeds coaches to do so.
He handed Archie Gray and Charlie Gray their first team debuts and was a big part of the reason why the latter was a success in his early career. The Leeds boss has been bold enough to put youngsters in when the chance comes up.
Just at the end of last season, he added teenager Jayden Lienou to the matchday squad in the final weeks of the season.
So it is a surprise to see some things being linked with his name since he arrived at Elland Road.
Former Leeds United star set for huge move
Joe Gelhardt is one Leeds United player who many have felt was not treated fairly by Farke.
The young forward was looking at first team opportunities, which rarely came around under the German. It took him months and a January loan at Hull City in order for him to enjoy his football again.
Charlie Cresswell is another young player who fans have blamed Farke for.
After a solid season away on loan at Milwall, the defender had expectations of starting in the first team.
But he was unable to break into the lineup, with the Leeds boss always deflecting questions when the media asked him. Cresswell eventually left the club to join Toulouse in France for just £3.8 million.
Foot Mercato are now reporting that the defender is set to complete a £24 million move to Stade Rennais.
Charlie Cresswell has come a long way since leaving Elland Road, and has been highly sought after by many top clubs.
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Fans should be happy with the present at Elland Road
Charlie Cresswell is now a top player in Europe with a bright future.
The fact that he did not make the cut under Farke is not really anyone’s fault. Criticizing the German for that would ultimately mean nothing down the line.
Since Cresswell left, the Whites have achieved promotion.
Joe Rodon and Pascal Struijk have been a wonderful defensive partnership in that time, and that is what fans should be focused on.
It has been over three years later, and everyone needs to move on.
