This article is part of Football FanCast’s Opinion series, which provides analysis, insight and opinion on any issue within the beautiful game, from Paul Pogba’s haircuts to League Two relegation battles…
Jack Clarke is something of a forgotten man at Leeds United.
The winger hasn’t featured once for the Whites in the league this term since being loaned back to the club after securing a £10m switch to Tottenham Hotspur.
Understandably, his lack of appearances has sparked talk of him being recalled once January rolls around, and that has led to speculation that Leeds may look to replace him once he goes back to Spurs.
Indeed, in a recent Q&A session with The Athletic, Phil Hay stated that Clarke being recalled could see United dip into the market.
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One supporter asked the journalist which positions Leeds could look to sign a player in once the window opens to which he replied:
“A forward if Nketiah was to be recalled. And possibly a replacement for Jack Clarke when he (surely) goes back to Spurs. But otherwise, I doubt they’ll do much.”
It’s clear that Hay thinks Clarke’s recall is inevitable, and he believes that Leeds could look to replace him if he does go, but United surely don’t need to bring in another winger if they lose Clarke.
The teenager hasn’t played yet in the league this season for a reason, and if anything he’s more of a hindrance than a help as he’s affected Leeds’ loan player quota by being at the club.
Leeds seem more than happy to get by without Clarke being on the pitch during his loan spell, so why would they bat an eyelid if he was recalled by Tottenham in January?
Surely United would be better of conserving their wage bill by not bringing in another player, or by loaning someone in a different position due to the fact they’d have one less loanee on the books.
Leeds shouldn’t be too reactive if Clarke is recalled once the winter window opens.
