This article is part of Football FanCast’s The Chalkboard series, which provides a tactical insight into teams, players, managers, potential signings and more…
Gjanni Alioski has seemingly made the left-back role his own at Leeds this season.
His performances have stepped up in terms of consistency and that was proven against West Brom as he not only scored a goal, but also put in a confident display defensively.
The North-Macedonian’s attacking threat was in play versus Millwall too as he netted when given more license down the left-hand side.
But he wasn’t even in the starting XI at the start of the season. Instead, Barry Douglas was the man preferred.
His displays have since earned huge criticism from supporters, though.
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In recent times Leeds have been linked with 19-year-old Sam McCallum.
The defender has had a breakthrough term at Coventry and according to Football Insider, the Whites are stepping up their interest over the international break with a view to snapping him up in January.
McCallum was initially linked to the club by the Coventry Telegraph a few weeks ago.
Possessing the ability to play in either full-back role, it’s on the left where he’s got the majority of his chances.
Per WhoScored, he’s played in that role three times and during the season, he’s made 1.4 interceptions and 3 clearances per game.
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Marcelo Bielsa hasn’t been shy to blood the youth since he arrived and that’s evident with another defender in Leif Davis.
Performing to a consistent level in League One, McCallum is definitely ready for first-team football so it would be rather strange if he was brought in and didn’t play.
Thus, Douglas would have every right to be fearful over his place in the squad. His game time is limited as it is but his role on the bench might well be claimed by the teenager if he arrives.
The Scot has been largely underwhelming this term and has made just 0.5 interceptions per outing. That’s already fewer than Leeds’ transfer target.
Douglas has made just three substitute appearances since August and is averaging a measly match rating of 6.5.
Now at the age of 30, it might be that Leeds are planning a succession plan by bringing in someone younger to take his place.
