Liam Cooper says ‘misunderstood’ Leeds star has ‘turned a corner’, praises work rate

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Liam Cooper has been quoted by Leeds Live as saying that Leeds United winger Ian Poveda has “had it tough” and is a little bit “misunderstood” but after a sparkling pre-season – the skipper says the winger has “turned a corner”.

Poveda, 23, returned to Elland Road this summer with his future at Leeds in tatters. He had spent the last two years out on loan. The first at Blackburn, breaking his leg after 10 games. Blackpool saw him have a hand in five goals.

Playing just 26 times. He returned to Leeds with a year left on his deal and the belief was that he would be sold, or allowed to go on loan before leaving on a free next summer. However, he has come into the side under Daniel Farke.

Starting against Manchester United, scoring against Nottingham Forest and shining against Hearts – Poveda has been the sliver lining of a solid Leeds pre-season. He will almost certainly be involved against Cardiff this weekend.

Leeds have plenty of options out wide. But Jack Harrison is injured, Cree Summerville could play as a 10. Helder Costa has no future at Leeds. Poveda could come in, then – and Cooper raved about him, after the win over Hearts.

“Ian’s been different class. He has had it tough. He will tell you that himself. He can be a bit misunderstood at times. The quality he’s got one vs one. I wouldn’t fancy it myself so I don’t know what other people think,” Cooper said.

“He’s a credit to himself, he seems to have turned that corner and he’s got to keep improving now. It’s about being consistent. The manager has shown, if you’re good enough, you’re going to play and he’s done himself no harm.”

Cooper: Leeds winger Poveda is misunderstood but has turned a corner

Poveda has been like a new signing, when we needed it the most. With Leeds likely to wave goodbye to a number of wingers before the end of the window – with movement expected this month, Poveda is a ready-made replacement.

In fact, it probably gives Leeds more license to cash in on more than one asset out wide – instead of selling one and keeping another. That gives us more cash in the coffers, more room with FFP, and more chance to sign new players.