Daniel Farke’s team has been applying pressure to the top three since Ilia Gruev took the pitch for Leeds United three games ago. The German has praised his new midfield commander.
Gruev, a £4 million summer acquisition from Werder Bremen, has been forced to bide his time. Before the year ends, there are just two starters. However, after two consecutive league starts, injuries occurred in the middle of the defense.
In victories over Preston and Cardiff City, Gruev has started and played the whole ninety minutes. To give Gruev an opportunity, Ethan Ampadu is filling in for the injured Pascal Struijk in defense.
Gruev, who has been the star of the previous two league games, is grasping it with both hands. Gruev received accolades during the news conference on the club’s YouTube channel on Tuesday. Farke complimented the Leeds player’s work ethic.
In addition to covering more ground than any other player on the field, including teammates and opponents, he is known for his work behind the scenes as the first player in and the last player out. He’s beginning to justify his £4 million price tag.
Preston North End at Leeds United – Sky Bet Championship
Nobody travels a greater distance. Excellent on the ball, disciplined, professional, seldom makes mistakes when in possession, and has a strong work ethic. You can assume he is like this off the field if you are like this on it.
From the beginning, you were patient, hardworking, modest, humble, and grounded. The last person out and the first person in. He is among the most professional players I have ever worked with, and he has always asked for more work.
Daniel Farke is astounded by Leeds star Ilia Gruev’s diligence
In the last two games, Gruev has been outstanding, and Neil Redfearn, the former Leeds manager, has praised him as well. But does he begin once everyone is in good shape? You’d think he would go back to the bench.
It will be challenging for Gruev to break the nearly unbreakable relationship that Glen Kamara and Ampadu have built in the middle, especially with Archie Gray on the right. He is, however, exerting every effort.
