According to Alan Hutton, Joe Gelhardt should seriously consider leaving Leeds United during the January transfer window.
In their recent match against the Londoners, Daniel Farke’s squad didn’t display their usual top form, but a Crysencio Summerville goal secured the win for Leeds United, which is what truly matters.
While there is a positive atmosphere surrounding Leeds United at the moment, one player who might be dissatisfied with how this season is unfolding is forward Joe Gelhardt.
At one point, the 21-year-old appeared to be one of the most promising prospects in the country when he had his opportunity during Leeds United’s time in the Premier League. However, his career has hit a roadblock over the past 18 months or so.
Gelhardt has been warming the bench as an unused substitute for the fourth consecutive game, with Farke having several other options ahead of him in the pecking order.
Therefore, pundit Alan Hutton is advising the forward to seek regular first-team football by making a move in January.
But, is this the right decision for Gelhardt’s career at this stage? Here, our writers offer their perspectives…
Chris Gallagher
Gelhardt must depart without a doubt.
A few years ago, the youngster stood out for Leeds United and seemed to have the potential to become an outstanding all-around forward. He possessed strength, speed, power, played with confidence, and was influential in the final third.
Even if he didn’t always play in his preferred position, I was surprised that his loan spell at Sunderland didn’t work out.
However, currently, Farke has a surplus of attacking quality, and it’s challenging to see Gelhardt breaking into the starting lineup given the current circumstances.
Therefore, a move in January, whether it’s a loan or a permanent transfer, should be a top priority for the forward. He needs to find a club where he can get consistent playing time, even if it means dropping down to the Championship. In the long run, it will benefit Gelhardt.
A permanent transfer might be difficult, given that he still has four years left on his contract at Elland Road, but there should be plenty of interest in a loan deal. It will then be up to Gelhardt to showcase his abilities, and all parties can reevaluate the situation in the summer.
Ultimately, Gelhardt is at a crucial juncture in his career, and he needs regular weekly action, which he won’t get at Leeds United this season.
Sam Rourke
In my opinion, Joe Gelhardt possesses too much talent and potential to be sitting on Leeds United’s bench.
I fully support the idea that moving away from Elland Road in January would be in the best interest of his personal development as a footballer, with a loan move likely being the most suitable course of action.
The 21-year-old had a reasonably productive spell at Sunderland last season and would benefit from joining another Championship side where he can secure regular playing time.
With Leeds United already boasting the likes of Joel Piroe, Patrick Bamford, and Georginio Rutter, it’s becoming increasingly challenging for Gelhardt to break into Farke’s starting lineup. Hence, a loan move in January seems like a logical choice.
Ultimately, Gelhardt can go elsewhere, gain valuable minutes on the pitch, enhance his personal development, and then reassess his situation in the summer.”
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