Daniel Farke admits Leeds United have a ‘special’ player who is never going to be quick

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There are plenty of players in this Leeds United side who will always have their critics. The fanbase is an expectant one and the pressure is bigger than ever, as Daniel Farke eyes promotion.

One example is goalkeeper Illan Meslier. Leeds fans want Meslier to leave with Rennes interested, as the second vice-captain continues to leave Leeds supporters unconvinced with his performances this season.

Others still have their doubters. Some are still concerned over Junior Firpo’s ability to defend, while many doubted Joe Rothwell when he arrived. Brenden Aaronson’s lack of strength is another constant criticism.

But perhaps up top is the position that comes under the most scrutiny, largely because of the strength in depth Leeds have at no.9. If Joel Piroe has a bad game, then fans immediately call for Mateo Joseph.

• READ MORE: Leeds are still monitoring £8.25m striker after holding talks to sign him in the summer

Daniel Farke says Joel Piroe is ‘special’, is trying to improve him

Joseph and Piroe have been the two starting options up top in Daniel Farke’s 4-2-3-1 system. That is despite one-time England star and long-serving Leeds striker Patrick Bamford remaining free from injury.

Asked about Piroe after another game in which the Dutchman failed to really make much of an impact, Farke said that he is trying to improve the £16m signing but admitted Piroe is never going to be quick.

“He’s always a striker that likes to drop deep. He’s a bit special in this approach and you can’t change a player’s strengths, you must play to that. You have to improve his weaknesses, his mobility,” Farke said.

“You’re never going to make a lightning-quick player out of Piroe. 11 starts, seven goals, can’t complain. We are on a good path with him. There are a few areas we can improve but we won’t change him at all.”

Joel Piroe top of Leeds United’s goal involvements this season

That is despite not starting as many as others, having to watch from the bench as Joseph started the season as first choice. But Piroe has seven goals for Leeds and has laid on two assists during 2024-25.

Leeds’ most goals and assists in Championship:

Farke took the time to remind people that while Piroe does get his critics largely due to his lackadaisical style of play, Piroe has still scored a very solid amount of goals despite only starting 11 league games.

The chances are that Piroe starts again on Tuesday night and lasts an hour before Farke turns to either Joseph or Bamford from the bench. Leeds go top with a win, with Sheffield United playing on Wednesday.