Three Leeds players who now need transfers after Man United friendly; midfield duo struggle

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Leeds United began their pre-season schedule with a 2-0 defeat to Manchester United in Oslo.

The Whites were playing for the first time under new manager Daniel Farke and despite the loss, there were signs of what the 46-year-old has tried to implement during his early days on the training pitch.

The first half was comfortably the most intense of the 45 minutes, with both sides making a raft of changes at the break. In fact, Cody Drameh was the only player to last the full 90.

Players such as Drameh, Leo Hjelde and Darko Gyabi appeared to thrive in Farke’s new system, but others unfortunately struggled to get to grips with the pace of the game.

While Farke has insisted every player has a clean slate under him this summer, here is a look at three players who need moves before the end of the window, whether it be temporary or permanent.

Sam Greenwood

Sam Greenwood worked hard during the summer to ensure he returned in prime condition for pre-season, but unfortunately looked off the pace yesterday.

The 21-year-old was handed a start in the number 10 position but just couldn’t get into the game, frequently losing possession whenever he was able to get it.

With Leeds clearly seeing his best position in midfield, Greenwood just doesn’t have the awareness or speed of thought to succeed in there and a loan move where he is able to play regularly is what he needs.

Jamie Shackleton

Jamie Shackleton played the first 45 minutes alongside Gyabi in a midfield two but it became clear pretty quickly that it is a system that doesn’t suit his strengths.

The 23-year-old was having to help Leeds in their attempts to build from deep and never really looked comfortable in doing so, with Shackleton instead the type of midfielder who excels in box-to-box.

If Leeds are to persist with this style, and given he has just one year left on his contract, perhaps a permanent transfer to a side that suits his game is best for all parties here.

Pascal Struijk

After a full summer away to clear his head following a dreadful end to last season, you would have hoped Pascal Struijk returned ready to kick on.

However, Struijk was unfortunately at fault for Man United’s first goal due to a poor first touch as the nightmare of last term reared its head once again.

Struijk is clearly very much a confidence player but at the moment is playing with none. A fresh start could really be what he needs to start fulfilling that early potential.