Leeds United are looking into a permanent deal for the on-loan defender, Matthew Pennington who is currently serving a spell with the Whites away from Premier League side, Everton. The 23-year-old has appeared sporadically under Thomas Christiansen with just 477 minutes of game time under his belt this season.
Pennington even though not a regular starter or a first choice centre-back, has provided the side with the required depth it needs to push for playoff spots in the EFL Championship. A product of the Everton academy, Pennington’s contract with the Toffees is set to end after this season and Leeds should not waste the opportunity to sign him up on a free transfer.
think so but most likely to try to do it in the summer.
— Phil Hay (@PhilHayYEP) January 20, 2018
The Warrington-born defender displayed his talents while on loan spells away to Coventry City, Tranmere Rovers and Walsall over the past three seasons before the scouts of Leeds were finally convinced over the youngster. Pennington has been capped at the U19 level of the England national team making his debut in a 1-0 win over Turkey on 21st March 2013.
Leeds are currently struggling in the second division of English football having lost 3 of their last 4 games and making the steep drop to the 10th spot of the points table. The defensive backline of Liam Cooper and Pontus Jansson has been impressive but the former’s second sending off this season is a cause of concern among the club ranks. The fans at Elland Road were left shell-shocked when Millwall slotted in the two late goals to snatch away the crucial win from them.
What started out to be one of the best chances of pushing for a promotion has turned into a dark and disappointing campaign under Thomas Christiansen who is struggling with a lack of attacking threat from the squad. The striker force has failed to convert the all-important chances on goal and it looks like the final stretch of the season will not improve until and unless they sign a proven goalscorer by the end of January.
But what should also be considered is Everton’s interests in Matthew Pennington and whether they will allow one of the bright prospects to leave Goodison Park without offering a contract extension. Pennington has picked crucial first team experience over the years and can make an impact at a top pedigree side like Everton.
Phil Jagielka is facing the final stages of his illustrious career and Ashley Williams has been less than impressive for the Toffees over the past couple of seasons. Now that the club is trying to make a push for a European spot with a fresh seed of investments, maybe Pennington can edge out the same sporadic role next season.
