Yahoo News Leeds United 'forgotten' man who could solve £11m transfer frustration
When Daniel Farke bemoaned his squad's lack of experience as Leeds United wobbled entering the final straight of the promotion race last season, the absence of Pascal Struijk was even more keenly felt.
The commanding Dutch defender had been an important part of Farke's Elland Road rebuilding project, playing 25 times before a groin injury ended his season just after Christmas. The 2-1 defeat to Preston North End on Boxing Day would be the 24-year-old's final action of the season as Leeds were robbed of one of their most dependable talents.
On paper, United didn't seem to suffer at first. It's not that Struijk wasn't missed, but Joe Rodon and Ethan Ampadu forged a strong partnership in the heart of the Leeds defence that continued to propel their promotion push. Leeds lost to West Bromwich Albion in the first game after his injury, but then went on to keep clean sheets in seven of their following eight Championship matches.
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As the months went by, however, with still no return for the defender, his absence was more and more noticeable. Again, it wasn't due to errors in the backline, but more in Farke's lack of options when it came to crunch games. Amapdu and Rodon continued to shine, but how Leeds missed the former's ability to play a midfield anchor role at times.
Rodon, of course, is now back with Tottenham and his future remains up in the air. Leeds would be keen to bring him back to West Yorkshire for another loan move, but Premier League new boys Leicester City and Southampton are interested in a permanent transfer, with an £11m fee likely to be enough to tempt Spurs to sell.
Whether Leeds are willing to go that far remains to be seen, but with Liam Cooper's in doubt as contract talks continue, they will need to address the centre of defence this summer. Enter Stuijk . . .
Farke has indicated that the Dutchman will be available for pre-season training after undergoing surgery in March to finally solve his injury problem. He will have fitness issues to prove, of course, but he is expected to play his part in the summer schedule in preparation for the big kick-off in August.
His return will come as a timely boost for Farke and will represent one less issue to solve. With transfer funds likely to be at a premium this season, having Struijk back in the fold means the German can focus elsewhere when it comes to strengthening his squad, and that can only be a good thing.
