Cardiff could allow Anthony Pilkington to leave, and Leeds United should step in.
Anthony Pilkington of Cardiff City celebrates
Neil Warnock has admitted he could allow Anthony Pilkington to leave Cardiff City, in comments made to BBC Wales Sport this week.
He cites Pilkington may need ‘a new challenge’, and that he will hold talks with the winger about his future.
Pilikington is a player who would suit one of Warnock’s former clubs, Leeds United, with the Whites looking to strengthen their side after narrowly missing out on a play-off place last season.
Anthony Pilkington of Cardiff City (L) in action with Richard O’Donnell of Bristol City
The 28-year-old has Premier League experience with Norwich City and has an eye for goal, while Championship top scorer Chris Wood could thrive further off his service.
Leeds are close to agreeing to bringing back last season’s loanee Hadi Sacko, but Pilkington is at another level, even if he did not get the assists to show for it last year due to Cardiff’s lack of punch up front.
| Team | Key Passes | Crossing Accuracy | Shots On Target | Assists | Goals | Appearances | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anthony Pilkington | Cardiff | 28 | 19% | 22 | 1 | 7 | 34 |
| Stuart Dallas | Leeds | 28 | 22% | 8 | 3 | 2 | 31 |
| Hadi Sacko | Leeds | 27 | 21% | 7 | 3 | 2 | 38 |
Pilkington offers far more of a goal threat, scoring more goals than Stuart Dallas and Hadi Sacko did combined, and having more attempts on target.
While the Leeds duo managed more assists, Pilkington created the same number of chances and he would improve his own game playing with Chris Wood.
Cardiff City’s Anthony Pilkington scores a free-kick
Leeds need to bring in experienced players of Pilkington’s calibre if they are to really strengthen and get over the hurdle and make the play-offs this season.
Cardiff would be reluctant sellers but if the offer is attractive enough it appears Neil Warnock would not stand in his way.
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