September 21, 2024

EFL pundit Adrian Clarke has spoken of his concern over Leeds United’s attacking options following another summer of change of Elland Road. The Whites recently sold Georginio Rutter to Brighton and Hove Albion in a £40m deal after the Premier League activated a release clause in the forward’s contract.

Having lost Rutter and Crysencio Summerville this summer, the Whites face an uphill struggle to replace the duo before next week’s transfer deadline. United have paid the price for failing to secure an immediate Premier League return last term, with 19 senior players departing. They have generated £130m-plus in player sales but have brought in just four new recruits.

“You can’t go into a season with a squad so much weaker than last season – and remember they didn’t go up last year! So, this is not a good sign for Leeds United.

“I’m not surprised (players moved on), because the individuals are fantastic, but I’m concerned. Where does it end?

“What’s Wilfried Gnonto thinking? He’s been a good pro since he was talked around into staying a year ago, but he’s just seen his mate, who he is as good as, head off to the Premier League.

“I think Rutter is just as big a loss as Summerville, because he knitted the midfield and the attack brilliantly. He was the catalyst for so many attacks, by coming short, turning and spraying the ball wide and getting into the box. He didn’t score many, but he did create chaos, and I’m looking at them now and thinking; where is the chaos coming from?”

Rutter could be handed his Seagulls debut against Manchester United this weekend. “We have to wait (and see) how he adapts but he had some games already for Leeds,” said Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler. “He’s a little bit German, he’s a little bit like from the UK and a little bit French so he has a mix of everything inside his character.

“He’s laughing a lot and I think he will be integrated fast in the group and that’s the most important.

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