Leeds United have signed 10 players so far this summer, but not all of them have settled perfectly into life at Elland Road so far.
There is still time left for one or two more additions to ensure this Leeds United squad is Premier League ready from the collective efforts of the 49ers, Adam Underwood, Robbie Evans, and Alex Davies.
Only Lucas Perri, Gabriel Gudmundsson, and Anton Stach have started every league game thus far under Daniel Farke, albeit both Sean Longstaff and Lukas Nmecha impressed against Newcastle United during the scrappiness.
However, it is the former in Leeds’ Brazilian goalkeeper who some have had some major concerns about, including Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher when on co-commentary duties against Newcastle yesterday evening.
Daniel Farke Manager of Leeds United.
Photo by Richard Sellers/Sportsphoto/Allstar via Getty Images
Daniel Farke agrees with concerns over Lucas Perri’s distribution
Gabby Agbonlahor has also been unconvinced with Perri following when Perri became the club’s third-most-expensive signing of the summer window so far.
Despite his second league clean sheet already, Carragher has worries over Leeds’ Perri. He said: “I do feel every time the goalkeeper has the ball at his feet, something could happen.
“Almost feel like he takes a little bit too long, an age. Allows the opposition players to get a little bit too close to him. Certainly too close for comfort for me and I’m not even a Leeds fan.”
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Speaking post-match, Daniel Farke also spoke regarding the fact Perri’s distribution has been shaky at times. The Leeds boss spoke to Beren Cross in the press conference after drawing 0-0.
Farke defended his goalkeeper after an injury this summer, stating: “Lucas came with an injury. Two clean sheets always good. We know he can improve his kicking.
“We don’t want him acting like a No.10 or additional outfield player, but room for improvement. Needs time with goalkeeper coach. Main thing is saving the ball. So far, so good.”
Lucas Perri of Leeds United.
Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images
Farke was more critical of Perri after Arsenal smashed his side 5-0; but Leeds appear to have signed the right calibre of player as a shot-stopper, with Perri also turning down numerous offers to sign for Leeds.
That faith showed in Leeds has to be reciprocated by the fans and manager, even when he makes a mistake with his kicking that leads to a goal. It is an inevitability at some stage this campaign.
On signing for Leeds, Perri revealed: “There was a lot of interest from some clubs during the off-season.
“At the start of pre-season, I was very happy at Lyon. I had a very good season, I made a lot of friends there, it was a special place for me.
“This opportunity to play for Leeds came up, and they were very forceful in their interest and in the way they negotiated my purchase.
“It’s an honour to be bought by them in the way I was. The project they presented to me is very cool, very strong, and I hope we can achieve our goals.”