Leeds United bottled up their chances of earning a promotion to the Premier League as they failed to pencil commendable results in the business end of the season in the 2016-17 campaign of Sky Bet Championship. The Whites find themselves in a pretty awkward position at this stroke of the hour, as apart from finding Garry Monk’s successor for the managerial post, they need to address their central defensive slot as well.
Having brought on loan from Swansea City, Bartley impressed throughout the campaign and formed an excellent partnership with Pontus Jansson to provide mettle in the backline for Monk’s outfit. Although Jansson is acquired on a permanent basis by the United, Bartley’s future is an uncertain one as he negotiates his future with the Swans. Thus, it goes without saying that the Peacocks would want to take proactive measures to find a replacement and someone like Everton’s Phil Jagielka should be monitored.
Jagielka has been one of the most faithful servants in the history of the Toffees, but despite not being undervalued or underappreciated, Ronald Koeman would be itching to build a strong core team for himself and plan for life beyond the 34-year-old defender. For Leeds United, one victory in their last eight Championship games hindered their prospects of getting a play-off spot and without any shadow of a doubt, Elland Road is in a dire need to lay their hands on someone who could calm the nerves of the troops and enable them in crossing the line next time around.
Considering the equation, one must admit that Jagielka certainly fits the bill as per the requirements of the West Yorkshire based club. He is a proven veteran of the English top flight who would offer exemplary leadership, has truckloads of experience and despite having lost much of his pace over the years, he still has an excellent understanding of the game. Besides, his contract expires next summer which means that Leeds United would not have to shatter their budget to lure him into their ranks.
Last season in the Premier League, Jagielka accumulated 27 appearances under his belt and garnered 3 goals and 2 assists. The centre-back further clocked 1.6 tackles, 1.5 interceptions, 7.7 clearances and 0.9 blocks per game on an average and showed us that despite being in the mid-thirties, he still has the requisite spirit to fight. Certainly, he would not be a long-term solution for Leeds United but he could be the impetus which they need to earn a promotion next season.
Statistics Credits: WhoScored
