admin“I have so much respect for him but he can’t stay in the league”- Daniel Farke deliver DAMNING verdict on £15m Leeds United Star following his Shambolic display against Fulham
Leeds United returned to winning form on Saturday with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Fulham at Elland Road, maintaining an eight-point buffer above the Premier League relegation zone.
Although Leeds controlled much of the match, they appeared destined for a frustrating draw until the dying moments.
Lukas Nmecha settled the contest with a dramatic strike in the final minute of normal time, sparking celebrations among Daniel Farke, his staff and the home supporters. The result further strengthened Leeds’ hopes of retaining their top-flight status.
Despite the positive outcome, questions were raised about the future of one Leeds player following Farke’s post-match comments.
Farke casts doubt over Lucas Perri’s role
Farke made a significant selection call by dropping Lucas Perri after the goalkeeper’s display in the 4-3 defeat to Newcastle United.
The Brazilian was deemed at fault for Newcastle’s winning goal and was subsequently left on the bench, with Karl Darlow handed the start against Fulham.
Perri now faces a tough challenge to reclaim his place, with Farke openly admitting that the club’s first-choice goalkeeper has not performed at the level required.
The Leeds boss stressed that newly promoted sides need consistent, high-quality performances from their goalkeeper to survive in the Premier League and suggested Darlow has earned his confidence.
Speaking to the Yorkshire Evening Post, Farke said:
“I have a lot of respect for Lucas. He joined us late in pre-season, suffered injuries and had limited continuity.
“At this level, especially as a promoted team, you need top performances from your goalkeeper if you want to stay in the league. You need more than what is sometimes required in the Championship, where you dominate possession.
“In recent weeks, he hasn’t quite delivered what we expect at this level. There is always pressure. Karl is a very reliable and solid goalkeeper, and he was excellent for us during the run-in last season and whenever Lucas wasn’t available.”
Perri’s struggles under the spotlight
Farke’s frustration with Perri was already evident after the defeat at Newcastle, making his omission against Fulham unsurprising. Leeds paid £15 million to sign the Brazilian from Lyon last summer, and he was immediately installed as the club’s number one.
However, Perri has struggled to fully convince, with early concerns raised over his distribution. His form has dipped further in recent weeks, including a costly error against Manchester United, and it appeared only a matter of time before Darlow was given an opportunity.
Whether Perri can rediscover his form and fight his way back into the starting lineup before the end of the season remains to be seen.
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