Joe Gelhardt’s journey at Leeds United faces a crossroads as he grapples with limited game time amid fierce competition in Daniel Farke’s lineup.
The 22-year-old forward, who joined the club in 2020, has only made three appearances this season, primarily due to the presence of strikers Joel Piroe, Mateo Joseph, and Patrick Bamford, all of whom currently sit higher in the manager’s pecking order.
Former Leeds defender Jon Newsome has urged Gelhardt to consider a move in the January transfer window, emphasizing the importance of regular play for a young player’s development.
Struggling for Opportunities
Since August, Gelhardt’s involvement with the first team has been minimal. His only start came in the Carabao Cup against Middlesbrough, and his subsequent contributions have been limited to brief appearances, including a substitute role in the match against Norwich City. Most recently, he was an unused substitute in Leeds’ goalless draw against Bristol City.
The challenge Gelhardt faces isn’t one of talent but of competition, with Piroe, Joseph, and Bamford well-entrenched as Farke’s go-to options. Gelhardt’s lack of consistent minutes has left him in a position where he may need to look elsewhere to continue progressing.
Newsome’s Advice for a Fresh Start
Newsome, who has closely followed Gelhardt’s development, recently commented on the striker’s career prospects and urged him to make a tough decision in January.
“He is 22 years of age. If he was 32, it might be a bit of a different story,” noted Newsome. “You dream of playing, you dream of scoring goals, you dream of playing football matches when you’re a kid. Now, he’s at the age where really he’s got to make some difficult decisions because he probably doesn’t want to leave the club. He likes it here, but for him and the betterment of his career, that’s probably what he’s got to do.”
Loan Move as the Likely Solution
While Gelhardt’s contract with Leeds runs until 2027, a loan move could provide him with the competitive minutes needed to hone his skills and reignite his career. Championship or League One clubs might find his goal-scoring potential valuable, offering him the platform to establish the consistency required to break back into the Leeds first team.
A temporary move would benefit both Gelhardt and Leeds United, with the striker gaining experience and the club preserving their young talent’s future prospects.
Writer’s View
Gelhardt’s potential remains evident, but regular play is crucial at this stage. A January loan could give him the match experience he needs, equipping him to return as a stronger option for Leeds United’s ambitions.
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