How fast time changes! At this time last season, Garry Monk was one of the most talked about names in the Premier League following the impressive start of his managerial career with Swansea City. Monk could not build on his strong start at the Liberty and was eventually sacked by the Swans and now he is looking to reclaim his reputation with Leeds United.
Monk has been quite active in the transfer market since arriving at the Elland Road having already signed six players in the form of Hadi Sacko, Kyle Bartley, Kemar Roofe, Marcus Antonsson, Matt Grimes and Robert Green. However, there’s a big void to fill in the middle of the park following Lewis Cook’s departure from the club. The 19-year-old acted like a bit of a livewire for the Whites last season when literally nothing was going their way and replacing him won’t be a bread and butter task.
Reports are suggesting that the Whites have identified Wigan Athletic midfielder Emyr Huws as the potential replacement of Cook. Garry Monk is well-known to the talent the Welsh international possesses from his Swansea days as a player. Huws was then one of the brightest prospects coming out of the Welsh club’s academy.
The 22-year-old started his football education with Swansea and then was snapped up by Premier League giants Manchester city who also gave him his first professional contract. After his failure to make the grade at the Etihad, Hews joined Wigan Athletic in 2014. Even though Wigan were in the League One last term, Hews was shipped out on loan to Championship side Huddersfield Town last campaign and the youngster impressed big time.
Already a full-fledged international, Huws is a midfielder who would offer a lot to Leeds. Though he is just 5’10” and does not look the strongest, the 22-year-old is most comfortable playing as a defensive midfielder. A brilliant reader of the game, the Welshman can anticipate dangers really well. He does not necessarily do the dirty work but still can protect the back four with ease.
Huws is a technically gifted player just like Lewis Cook and shows a likewise hunger and willingness. The 22-year-old possesses quick feet and can dribble his way past defenders. He likes to test the goalkeeper from a long distance and can do the damage from direct free-kicks. Leeds lack a quality set-piece taker and Huws can change the scenario. It would be a brilliant signing from Monk to bring the Welsh international at Elland Road.
