Why Caleb Ekuban could be about to save his Leeds career under Marcelo Bielsa

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Ekuban is impressing out on loan from Leeds at Trabzonspor.

It will not come as news to Leeds United fans that Caleb Ekuban is impressing in Turkey. The powerhouse striker has been banging in the goals of late, but it something else that may convince Marcelo Bielsa to keep him.

Ekuban, 24, scored his seventh goal of the season for Trabzonspor against SuperLig leaders Istanbul Basaksehir during a 4-2 defeat. He has managed to reach that total in just 17 appearances, while also adding two assists.

For a striker that looked beleaguered at Elland Road last season, lacking in confidence and devoid of any real quality or potential, it is a strong return.

Ekuban is on a loan-to-buy deal at Trabzonspor, with the SuperLig outfit reportedly having to pay just £900,000 to land the striker permanently in the summer, according to Turkish outlet Miliyet.

But Leeds and Bielsa may end up looking to keep Ekuban, but not because of his form in front of goal. Instead, it his is versatility – and how playing in different positions this season has not stopped him from shining in claret and blue.

Ekuban has made seven of his 17 appearances as a striker, in which he has scored three goals. But he has also played on both flanks and even in the number 10 role five times, also scoring three times.

Bielsa likes a small squad. Despite the Championship being a demanding slog of a campaign, the Argentine opted for a squad with two players for each position and the odd youngster. He offloaded 35 players on loan, or permanently.

It means El Loco likes to include players with plenty of versatility. It has seen Tyler Roberts play in midfield, Stuart Dallas at right-back, Kalvin Phillips at centre-back and Gjanni Alioski at left-back this season.

Ekuban’s ability to play up front, in the 10 role and out wide might just save the striker from the chop in the summer. It may see Bielsa give him a chance to shine at Elland Road come next season – if he continues his form in all three positions.