Plymouth Argyle boss Ian Foster has shared his verdict on the debut display of Darko Gyabi following his loan move from Leeds United during the week.
Darko Gyabi got a much-needed loan move this month having struggled for minutes for Leeds this season. His one league appearance under Daniel Farke came with a late cameo in the win at Ipswich Town in August.
But Foster showed no hesitation when it came throwing him straight into the team for Argyle’s trip to face Huddersfield Town on Saturday.
Ian Foster reacts as Darko Gyabi makes Plymouth debut
Plymouth drew 1-1 with Darren Moore’s men, with both goals scored during the first-half. Gyabi meanwhile, completed the full 90 minutes alongside fellow debutant Ashley Phillips.
And speaking to the club’s official media team, Foster suggested that he was very happy with Gyabi’s display in the draw.
“They were excellent, both of them,” he said. “They fit in the group incredibly well, and that’s credit to the other boys. We’ve welcomed them.
“I don’t look at birth certificates when I pick teams. They’re both teenagers coming into what is a very, very difficult game and I thought they both handled it really, really well.
“Ashley was solid throughout the game. I thought his in-possession game was good, and we’ve seen with Darko what he’s capable of. He’s full of energy. He wants to get on the ball, play forward and break lines.
“Those boys aren’t quite there in terms of match intensity at this level, so that’s great for them to get 90-plus minutes in the legs. They’ll be stronger for it next week.”
Important spell for Leeds midfielder
It could be a really important move for Gyabi. The 19-year-old has shown glimpses following his £5 million move from Manchester City. But he has been unable to take that next step and become a regular in the first-team squad.
Plymouth are obviously competing at the same level. And they are dealing with a pressure of their own, as they look to remain in the Championship following promotion.
Leeds rejected bids for Gyabi in the summer. But it is still unclear whether Farke believes that he has the potential to make the grade at Elland Road.
An impressive spell at Home Park may make a real difference. Certainly, he appears to be off to a very promising start.
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