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Daniel Farke comments on Cody Drameh as Leeds defender leaves to join Birmingham City

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Daniel Farke has said that Cody Drameh joining Birmingham City on loan from Leeds United is a “smart move for all parties”, stating the defender wanted to play regular football. He will wear the no.12 shirt.

Drameh, 21, returned to Leeds this summer and the feeling was that he would instantly become first choice. It comes after starring during two half-loan spells at Cardiff City and the Luton Town last term.

But after starting in pre-season, he picked up an injury. Luke Ayling has been superb on the right of the defence, and Djed Spence has been signed from Tottenham on loan. Drameh became third choice.

Manchester United v Leeds United - Pre-Season Friendly
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Not to mention, Drameh was introduced against Ipswich last weekend but after just 20 minutes, he was subbed off again by Farke – proper, Marcelo Bielsa style. Farke was asked about his move to the Blues.

“It was not a decision against Cody. I mentioned he is a brilliant lad and has delivered at this level. But for teams that play slightly different to Leeds – ambitions are different,” Farke told Friday’s presser.

“With Luke Ayling – a really experienced leader – and Djed Spence, a pretty good option. Byram and Shackleton can play there. Cody wanted to play, it is a smart move for all parties,” Farke continued.

Salford City v Leeds United - Carabao Cup Second Round
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Farke: Drameh joining Birmingham a smart move for all parties

He is right. Drameh needed to play, Leeds did not need him with Ayling and Spence on side – and Sam Byram and Jamie Shackleton who can also operate in that position. He joins an ambitious Blues side.

Buoyed by the influx of new cash and the superstar impact of American Football star Tom Brady, the Midlands club are heading in the right direction. Drameh now links up with Tyler Roberts after his move.

It will be interesting to see if Drameh does, as some reports suggest, have a permanent option in his loan. If so, when does his contract end – given, it was previously believed it would end next summer.