A new left-back is on Leeds United’s radar for the January transfer window, but the makeshift incumbent still has serious work on their hands. There are two competitive matches before next month arrives and then at least another four before deadline day, if it takes that long.
Pascal Struijk has gone from being a back-up centre-back in the summer to a first-choice full-back keeping the only natural alternative out of the side, against all the odds. Robin Koch, Brenden Aaronson and Tyler Adams are the only outfield players with more minutes than the Dutchman, to underline how well he’s done in the new role.
Advice from team-mates with far more experience in the position has been vital to Struijk’s development. While Junior Firpo, the man everyone expected to be holding down the position with zero competition, has been a constant source of support for Struijk.
