‘No surprise’: Coach reacts to claims ‘really good’ player could leave Leeds

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Millwall manager Gary Rowett admits he is not surprised to see Leeds United loanee Charlie Cresswell linked with a move to Championship rivals Norwich City, speaking to the Southwark News. 

The Preston-born 20-year-old certainly has plenty of admirers at Elland Road. But whether Cresswell can secure himself a role in Jesse Marsch’s first-team plans when he returns from a spell at The Den, however, is another question entirely. 

Yes, Marsch is a fan of the rock-solid centre-half; a natural-born leader and a vocal presence on and off the pitch despite his tender age. The former RB Leipzig boss hailed Cresswell’s personality and maturity only a couple of months ago (Leeds Live). 

But with Robin Koch, Liam Cooper, Pascal Struijk and Diego Llorente ahead of him in the Elland Road pecking order, The Sun believes that Norwich are keeping a close eye on Cresswell on the off-chance that he could become available for transfer in 2023. 

Does Charlie Cresswell have a future at Leeds United?

“It’s not a surprise. He’s been really, really good,” Millwall boss Rowett said when quizzed about those Norwich links.

“For a first loan, to come into a difficult division when we’ve probably not been at our best in that period, he’s done really, really well. I’m not surprised (Norwich want him). He’s a really good player and one with a lot of potential.”

Cresswell has scored three times in just nine Championship games for Millwall; his aerial presence in both boxes coming in handy at a side who pose plenty of problems from set-pieces. The youngster has been left out of Rowett’s squad for the last two matches, however; a victim of Millwall’s recent switch to a flat-back four.

“Because of the formation change, I had to make a decision on which two centre-halves I chose,” adds Rowett; linked with the West Brom job following the sacking of Steve Bruce. 

“One was my captain and one was my vice-captain. It’s very, very difficult. There will be an opportunity at some point for Charlie to come back into the side. And he’s got to be ready to stay in it when he does.”