According to reports, Leeds United is considering making a move to recruit Wales international defender Connor Roberts from Burnley in an attempt to actively replace the void created in the squad by Djed Spence’s unexpected return to Tottenham.
Daniel Farke’s team had high hopes for Spence when they signed him for a season-long loan over the summer. Spence had previously assisted Nottingham Forest in winning promotion from the Championship. Due to his impressive performance, Spence—who had been on loan at the City Ground—moved to Tottenham Hotspur, where Middlesbrough paid him almost £19 million.
Despite rumours that Spence was a signing made by chairman Daniel Levy rather than a player Antonio Conte had favoured, Spence was never a favourite at Spurs. As a consequence, Spence was quickly sent on loan to Rennes.
This summer, Spence was permitted to join Leeds, and he moved to Elland Road with his Spurs teammate Joe Rodon, who had also made the temporary move to West Yorkshire. It was a similar tale both times.
However, Spence has struggled to get going and suffered an injury shortly after arriving, whereas Rodon has performed admirably for the Whites.
When Spence did ultimately return, Leeds had switched his preferred right-back position to that of adolescent midfielder Archie Grey, forcing Spence to settle for cameos off the bench or cover in a strange and generally unwanted left-back role.
Even so, it was unexpected to learn on Thursday night that Spence was going back to Tottenham as the Whites ended his loan, following just nine games totaling just 290 minutes for Leeds.
But Leeds manager Daniel Farke downplayed several fan conspiracy ideas around the loan termination, even though he was asked to clarify the decision.
Nothing significant has occurred there. We have examined the season’s first half. It goes without saying that decisions made in January are long-term ones, according to Farke.
“We wanted to consider the feelings that were generated over the holiday season. After some consideration, we decided to terminate Djed’s loan. We appreciate him spending time with us. We hope the best for him.
Given Leeds’ current back-row injury woes, the news that Spence has been sent back to Spurs seems unexpected.
After missing the previous two games due to an adductor injury, captain Pascal Struijk will be absent again this weekend. This season, he has been Leeds’ rock at the back.
Liam Cooper and Junior Firpo are expected to start for the Whites at London Road because they will also be without left-back Sam Byram.
“Due to a little hamstring tear, Sam Byram will not be playing in this game. I’m hoping he’s free for Cardiff. Pascal Struijk’s injury is also more severe than anticipated. A slight uncertainty for Cardiff, stated Farke.
