Neil Redfearn has admitted that he thought that Joe Gelhardt had an underwhelming evening as Leeds United were knocked out of the Carabao Cup by Salford City.
Redfearn was speaking to BBC Radio Leeds after Daniel Farke’s men were beaten 9-8 on penalties after the game had finished 1-1 after 90 minutes.
Farke made a number of changes for the contest. And one of those who came into the side was Joe Gelhardt. It appeared to be an ideal opportunity for the 21-year-old to remind everyone of what he can do.
Gelhardt was starting in a front four which included Crysencio Summerville, Willy Gnonto and Georginio Rutter. And obviously, Leeds were up against lower league opposition.
However, Gelhardt was on the pitch for just over an hour, with Luis Sinisterra replacing him as Leeds chased an equaliser.
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Redfearn underwhelmed by Gelhardt display in Leeds loss
And Redfearn conceded that Gelhardt failed to really take his chance to send a message to Farke.
“I thought Gelhardt was a little bit off, if I’m honest,” he told BBC Radio Leeds. “He gives you your energy and your desire and your drive.
“But he was playing in his favourite role tonight, and I’m thinking go on, give us a little bit more of what you’re about. I was expecting him to get on the ball in pockets and get turning and get shots off, and he didn’t.”
The concern for Gelhardt will be that it just does not seem to be clicking for him at Leeds. The fans have been absolutely desperate for him to make the grade at Elland Road. And there have definitely been glimpses.
That first-half performance when he led the line at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium as Leeds dealt with so many injuries was sensational. And of course, there was that goal against Norwich which sent Elland Road into a frenzy.
If Leeds end up bringing in more attacking depth before the deadline, there has to be discussions about whether Gelhardt gets another loan move.
No-one wants to see his undeniable talent go to waste. But it is just not happening for him at Leeds right now.