The Leeds United boss believes the 21-year-old pair can come good.
Leeds’ Alex Mowatt on the bench
Leeds United manager Garry Monk has been discussing the form of two young midfield talents at Elland Road – who appear to have struggled to find their best football so far this season.
The players in question are Alex Mowatt and Matt Grimes.
QPR’s Massimo Luongo in action with Leeds United’s Matt Grimes
Mowatt, Leeds’ player of the season back in 2014-15, has had a difficult campaign so far for Leeds. The 21-year-old has played just 379 minutes of football for Leeds in the Championship – featuring in just nine of their 13 games.
His displays have not been eye-catching when given a chance and he appears to be struggling to build on his potential.
But Monk insists that Mowatt is still a key member of the Leeds team. He told TV Yorkshire today:
“Mowatt is as important as anyone else in that squad. I count on the squad I don’t count on just one player or eleven players.
“He probably hasn’t played as many minutes as he would probably like, that’s normal for a player. When he’s come on he’s done well.
Leeds’ Alex Mowatt and Brighton’s Biram Kayal
“Of course with young players their form will dip up and down Mowatt’s working as hard as anyone. He’s an important part of the group.”
He went on to say something similar about Matt Grimes. The Swansea City loanee, also 21, has struggled perhaps even more than Mowatt but has recently fought his way back into the Leeds matchday squad. His performances have also been below par but Monk sees improvement:
“Matty is coming back to the player I’ve seen at Swansea and he’s fighting for minutes as well.
Leeds United manager Garry Monk
“He’s fighting very hard. We spoke at the start of the season. (I told him) that he was a little bit off of what was needed. He’s come back, you see him every day fighting hard. He deserves his place in the squad at the minute.”
Leeds United fan will undoubtedly feel more attachment toward Mowatt but in general will be very pleased if both young men can find their best form for the club in the near future.
If they do, then Leeds can really start aiming high for this season.
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