Robin Koch has told German newspaper SportBild that he has no intention of leaving Leeds United this summer. The centre-back has been operating on the right side of the defence of late, due to the absence of Luke Ayling.
Koch, 25, has endured a tricky time at Elland Road since joining the club for £13million (Goal) from Freiburg in 2020. The versatile centre-back, who can also play in midfield, has only managed 38 appearances in two seasons.
This time around, Koch managed 21 outings for the Whites, but was a crucial part of the defence in the fight against relegation. He has started eight of Jesse Marsch’s 12 games, coming on as a sub in another three.
Indeed, Marsch has gone on record saying that Koch trains “very well” and deserved to start even more games. At right-back, he has performed admirably. But with two years left on his deal, his future might be in doubt.
Asked about his future after playing a huge part in his side’s last-gasp escape from relegation – a 2-1 win over Brentford – Koch was unequivocal. He stated that he will remain at Leeds, and hopes for a better season.
“I feel super comfortable in the city and have a contract here. When I joined Leeds we had a project in mind, a journey that is not over for us. There’s a lot more to this team. We want to prove that next season,” Koch said.
Koch has no intention of leaving Leeds: Third time’s the charm?
When signed from Freiburg, there was real optimism. Leeds had paid a small-ish fee for a Germany international. But injury has prevented Koch from proving his worth. He will feel he has unfinished business at Leeds.
Perhaps, the 2022-23 season will give him the chance to show what he is capable of. Like Stuart Dallas, he might be the victim of his versatility, failing to nail down one specific position. But there is a player in Koch.
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