2024-02-12 08:49:49
Pascal Struik’s injury was met with great concern initially at Leeds. However, it led to a change in the composition and the appearance of Iliya Gruev in it.
He could now become manager Daniel Farke’s new permanent starter until the end of the season as his side look to realize their goals.
This comment by leeds-live.co.uk came out after Leeds’ 3-0 home win against Rotherham in the 31st round of the Championship (Tier III of English football).
In it, after 7 consecutive full matches, the 23-year-old Bulgarian national was replaced for the first time.
In the 75th minute, with the final score already set, Farke decided to rest the defensive midfielder and replaced him with new signing Connor Roberts. At that moment, nearly 35,000 Leeds fans rose to their feet and applauded Gruev, chanting his name. An assessment that cannot be replaced by any other.
The 8-game starting streak in question for Ilia came after a difficult first 4 months at Leeds, during which he worked hard to break into the starting line-up. In addition to his efforts, Struik’s injury also helped him.
According to leeds-live.co.uk, following his full recovery, the Dutch defender is doubtful to return to the squad. Due to his injury, Ethan Ampadu was returned to the defense, and Glen Kamara’s partner in the pair of defensive midfielders became Gruev.