Leeds United boss Javi Gracia hails the ‘qualities’ Sam Greenwood provides

Follow us on Google Discover

Leeds United coach Javi Gracia praises Sam Greenwood for offering ‘different options’ with his ability to play in multiple positions. Yet he has seldom played under the Spaniard so far.

The 21-year-old has only featured for 10 minutes over Gracia’s first three fixtures in charge of the Whites. Greenwood featured as a late substitute during Leeds’ 1-0 defeat at Chelsea last Saturday. He also did not make Gracia’s matchday side in the FA Cup against Fulham.

Greenwood was among the backups in Gracia’s debut match in charge of Leeds. But he did not play against Southampton after his limited role under caretaker boss Michael Skubala. Jesse Marsch’s interim heir gave the Sunderland native eight minutes across three outings.

Marsch, likewise, was reluctant to trust Greenwood with a leading role whilst in charge of Leeds this season. The American only started the England youth international in two of his 11 Premier League appearances. But he did start in Leeds’ three FA Cup ties under Marsch.

Greenwood also provided one assist as Leeds came from behind to draw 2-2 at Cardiff City in their initial third-round tie. Rodrigo turned the youngster’s cross home for Greenwood’s third assist this term. He also created two goals and scored once in the top-flight this term.

Javi Gracia explains his stance on Sam Greenwood’s role for Leeds United

Each of Greenwood’s Premier League goal involvements came in November and December during his best spell in Marsch’s Leeds squad. But Gracia has so far limited his chances for further minutes since taking over. Yet Gracia admires what the youngster has in his locker.

Gracia said, via the Yorkshire Evening Post: “If you ask me about the best position for Sam, I will tell you [to] ask Sam where he prefers to play because knowing that maybe is the best answer for your question.

“After that, maybe I have to choose for the balance for the team. He has to play on the right or in central midfield or [as a] second forward. The qualities he has give me different options to put him in many positions.”

Gracia introduced Greenwood for Jack Harrison for the final 10 minutes of Leeds’ defeat at Chelsea. He took up a central role at Stamford Bridge but could not help inspire the Whites to a result. WhoScored also only recorded him as completing two of his five pass attempts.