Ilia Gruev shares what he really thinks about Leeds United boss Daniel Farke on international duty

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It has been a frustrating season for Ilia Gruev. Injured for four months, the midfielder has found himself being used as a rotational option at Leeds United since overcoming his knee issue.

Prior to his injury, Gruev was first choice in midfield. Despite the signings of Ao Tanaka and Joe Rothwell, Gruev remained Daniel Farke’s first pick having started in midfield during the second half of last season.

But the injury came just one game after Ethan Ampadu picked up a long-term issue against Coventry. It saw Rothwell and Tanaka combine for 70 minutes against Norwich after Gruev also suffered his injury.

Since then, Gruev has been used as a rotational option – often being picked away from home when Farke wants more defensive nous but making way for Rothwell at home, who provides more creative flair.

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Ilia Gruev shares what he really thinks about Daniel Farke

So, Gruev may feel some resentment towards Farke – his reduced game time hardly his fault. But when asked about the criticism Farke has received in Germany, Gruev said that he simply does not agree.

In a staunch defence of his manager during an interview with German outlet SPORT, Gruev said that Farke has found a home in England and praised his work while Gladbach manager during the 22-23 season.

“I don’t see it that way,” Gruev said, when asked if Farke only works in England. “He finished tenth with Gladbach. That wasn’t a bad result in such a difficult time. He was promoted twice with Norwich.

“He has a good reputation here in England. The coach trusts me and plays me, which is the best thing for me. I don’t need a coach who talks to me a lot; what’s important is that I feel his trust,” Gruev continued.

Where does Ilia Gruev’s Leeds United future really lie?

Given he is a rotational option, the Bulgarian midfielder’s game time is only going to get smaller should Leeds win promotion. However, Gruev has said how it would be a dream to play in England’s top tier.

But if Leeds do re-sign Kalvin Phillips or another midfielder, Gruev is only going to be pushed further down the pecking order. This summer, Gruev needs to gain assurances from Farke over his game time.

But realistically, Gruev is going to be pushed further down the rankings and if that is the case, then he may have to consider an exit with German clubs likely to be keen. Failure to go up, Gruev will stay.