Leeds brought in an influx of new signings in the summer following the appointment of director of football Victor Orta.
The appointment of Victor Orta as director of football and owner Andrea Radrizzani’s first transfer window was always going to promise one thing for Leeds fans – an influx of new faces at Elland Road.
They were given just that, but now at the halfway point of the 2017-18 season, a number of those recruits have come under scrutiny. Here, we rank Leeds’ summer signings.
12 – Cameron Borthwick-Jackon
The fact that Leeds are likely to be on the lookout for a new left-back in January says everything about the Manchester United loanee. Literally no impact, even when the Whites need someone to step up.
11 – Mateusz Klich
Although he has hardly been given a chance by Thomas Christiansen, Poland international Klich’s pedigree in Europe with FC Twente, his international caps and £1.5million transfer fee promised so much more. Should be offloaded.
10 – Jay-Roy Grot
Given plenty of chance to prove his worth but the 19-year-old had hardly proved his £1.5million transfer fee from NEC Nijmegen. However, he does have age on his side – his only saving grace.
9 – Pawel Cibicki
Another player who cost £1.5million, but simply has not been given the chance to shine. Previous links with the biggest clubs in the Premier League, as well as the fee, promised plenty – but he has only shone what he is capable of in glimpses.
8 – Pierre-Michel Lasogga
Huge wages, renowned in the Bundesliga, bought as Chris Wood’s replacement. But just a handful of goals and the inability to use his physical frame to good use has seen the 26-year-old dropped for the likes of Caleb Ekuban and Kemar Roofe.
7 – Andy Lonergan
Signed as a back-up goalkeeper, veteran Lonergan has stepped up to the plate when needed to and has pulled off some marvellous saves when Leeds were in a sticky patch. However, a number of clangers see him seventh best.
6 – Vurnon Anita
Hardly shown the kind of quality that saw Newcastle pay £8million for him in 2012 from Ajax, but his versatility at right-back, left-back or in midfield has seen become a dependable member of the squad when needed.
5 – Matthew Pennington
Hardly put a foot wrong since joining the club on loan from Everton, but has hardly had a foot to put wrong with Liam Cooper and Pontus Jansson becoming first-choice. More than relied upon as back-up.
4 – Caleb Ekuban
Striking a chord with the fans, the 23-year-old powerhouse has impressed up top despite only scoring once. A bargain buy at just £500,000, Ekuban has been unlucky with two serious foot injuries.
3 – Felix Wiedwald
Although the German has come in for criticism, he has still managed to establish himself – at the second time of trying – as a first-team regular. He is getting to grips with crossing, and at just £500,000, he is a steal.
2 – Ezgjan Alioski
Despite a slow start to the season, the Macedonia international has come out of his shell and inspired Leeds to turn around a poor run of form between November – scoring four goals in Leeds’ five November outings. Excellent acquisition.
1 – Samu Saiz
The real driving force behind Leeds’ promotion hopes. Saiz has endeared himself to the Elland Road faithful for his passionate displays, but has also proved more than effective in the final third with goals and assists in abundance.
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