Archie Gray will start for Leeds United against Stoke City on Wednesday night, according to Daniel Farke.
Farke was asked about Gray receiving a rest during his pre-match press conference on Tuesday, before of this evening’s encounter against the Potters.
The 17-year-old has started 12 of Leeds’ 14 games in all competitions this season, while also playing three 90-minute games for England’s U19s in less than a week during the most recent international break.
Farke criticized England’s use of Gray ahead of Leeds’ match against Norwich City on Saturday, but chose to give him another start at right-back despite his increased exertion.
After a shaky start, the ‘phenomenal’ Gray settled into the game at right-back and could be given another start there, with Glen Kamara and Ethan Ampadu seemingly first choice in midfield.
Farke teases another Gray debut.
Farke claims he is ‘not scared’ about giving Gray another start tonight, despite the fact that there is a nice recuperation period between Leeds’ games against Norwich and Stoke.
“In general, I’m not concerned about this turnaround,” he said, “but we played on Saturday, and it was difficult because many players were away and playing two games for their country, Archie three, important games for many of them, do or die games.”
“Then they come back with only one day of training two days before an important away game at Norwich.” It’s always challenging. They are now back at home, sleeping in their own beds rather than spending too much time in motels.
“We had two relatively quiet days on Sunday and Monday, followed by a training day today.” Then we play on Wednesday evening, so the turnaround isn’t a problem.”
Gray should be handled with caution by Farke.
Farke will know better than anyone if Gray’s workload is getting too much for him, but he appears to be unconcerned at the moment.
Gray should be rested in one of the next two games, with the game against Huddersfield Town being the most likely given the short turnaround.
Giving him a rest against the Terriers would keep him healthy and ready for the crucial trip to runaway leaders Leicester City next Friday.
