Even though Dean Jones believes that Leeds United will need Glen Kamara’s experience this season just as much as Archie Gray’s, the player may soon be doing so well that it will be difficult to leave him out of the starting lineup.
The young player with ties to Crystal Palace [Alan Nixon, 24 September] may be in a “different situation” with regard to his claim to a starting berth in the January window, the former Eurosport journalist told GIVEMESPORT (20 October).
Jones remarked: “Perhaps by the time the new year arrives, we’ll be examining a different scenario, and he’s playing so well that he refuses to be excluded only on the basis of his age.
“I don’t believe Leeds would do that anyhow, but for now, you’re going to want that sense of experience to get Leeds through certain games, so that’s what they’re going to have to be careful with.
“When they can integrate Grey into the team or when Glen Kamara will be needed.”
The fact that Grey, an academy product, has performed so well is one of the reasons Daniel Farke signed Kamara from Ibrox this summer, but it’s also the reason why he hasn’t played nearly as often as Grey.
Both will be needed over a lengthy season, and barring an absurd offer for the homegrown player, it doesn’t seem reasonable for him or the club to go anytime soon.
The teenager is moving about the lineup now that Farke has deployed him against Bristol City as a surprise right-back, so he will undoubtedly get plenty of action.
Although Grey hasn’t yet displayed any signs of immaturity, experience might be vital as the season comes to a close or perhaps even in the playoffs.
In any case, after making such an effort to replenish the centre midfield in the summer, Farke will undoubtedly require the services of all four before the season is over.
However, regardless of how well he is doing, he simply cannot play in every game at his age. As a result, Kamara will play alongside standout summer acquisition Ethan Amapadu and, most likely, at some time, the third midfield addition, Ilia Gruev.
After having so few midfield alternatives to start the season, the manager seems to be making the most of them thus far.
