‘Desperate’… Daniel Farke claims something ‘special’ has happened to Leeds player this week

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Daniel Farke has explained why he decided to allow Ian Poveda to link up with the Colombia National Team, which will see him miss three Leeds United matches – describing the chance as “special”.

The 23-year-old, who has started just one league game all season but has regularly been involved, has been given the chance to represent his country Colombia in what is a bit of a strange international spell.

Colombia take on Venezuela and Mexico in friendlies on the 10th, and then the 16th. A squad comprising of players that play for clubs where the season has ended – or, players that are given permission to go.

A bit of a B-team, almost – in that Colombia’s best players are not involved, with clubs obviously not willing to lose them. Luis Sinisterra for example, not involved; he is playing regularly with Bournemouth.

So, Farke has explained that while he would have preferred to have Poveda available, he said that he chose to given Poveda the chance to shine and come back in a good mood, in today’s press conference.

“Obviously you always want to have all players available. We always allow players to go to the National Team. This is a special one as it’s not a normal call-up, especially for Ian as it is his first one,” Farke said.

“He was desperate to go. His family roots. A chance to shine for his Motherland. We decided to allow. Back on the 18th. Hasn’t had many minutes. This could be a big boost for his mood, his confidence.

“Imagine if he hadn’t gone, he might have trained not motivated, disappointed, a sign that we don’t care about his wishes or international career. It would have sent a sign to the lads that we are just selfish.”

Daniel Farke explains decision to let Ian Poveda go to Colombia

Farke makes an excellent point. With Poveda so desperate to go, imagine not allowing the winger to join up with the Colombia squad – especially, considering his lack of game time. He would have been gutted.

His first chance to play for Colombia, and the chance to really break into Colombia’s National Team. Or, at least put his foot in the door. A real opportunity for him – and even, put Poveda in the shop window.