It took just one pre-season game for Cody Drameh to stamp his authority on who should be Leeds United’s first choice right-back this season.
Drameh was handed a starting spot in Daniel Farke’s first match as manager as Leeds were beaten 2-0 by Manchester United in Oslo thanks to second half goals from Zoam Emeran and Joe Hugill.
Both sides made a raft of changes at the break, but interestingly, Drameh was the only player to play the full 90 minutes, all be it moving to left-back to accommodate Luke Ayling in the second half.
The 21-year-old struggled slightly on the left but it was clear that it was not his natural position, with the first half more what he should be judged on.
Drameh was up against arguably Man United’s most dangerous player in Jadon Sancho and showed his quality in one v one defensive situations, while also looking tidy on the ball.
Drameh must be handed new deal with first choice right back spot now his
There has been plenty of speculation surrounding the future of Drameh this summer with newly promoted Premier League duo Burnley and Luton Town keen on him.
However, it has also been reported Drameh is open to staying at Leeds providing he is offered regular football, which will now be the case with Rasmus Kristensen on his way to Roma.
Ayling is the only player now standing in his path for a first team spot, but if yesterday is anything to go by, then Drameh simply must be trusted.
There is no doubt Ayling has plenty to offer in the dressing room leadership wise, but as was the case frequently last season, he switched off at a key moment allowing Hugill to score Man United’s second unmarked.
Drameh has just 12 months left on his current contract at Elland Road and Leeds should now be putting an offer on the table with the promise of regular first team football.
Receive a digest of our best Leeds content each week direct to your mailbox
