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2 summer headaches Leeds United have to start preparing for

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Already at Leeds United, there are bound to be a number of key decisions that need to be made ahead of the summer window.

The Whites are facing a battle to stay in the Premier League this season, as they sit 14th in the table after beating Wolves 4-2 last time out.

Javi Gracia is the man that has been tasked with guiding the side to safety, but there is no telling yet whether he is going to be the manager in charge for the 2023/24 season onwards.

Whoever is in charge of the club has plenty of decisions to make with regards to the current squad and how they progress, no matter the league Leeds will find themselves in.

Here, we look at two lingering headaches that the club need to resolve ahead of the summer…

Finding permanent clubs for outcasts

A number of fringe players were subject to loan moves this season: Tyler Roberts, Alfie McCalmont, Helder Costa, Jamie Shackleton and Ian Poveda being the main ones.

None of these players look like they have a future at Leeds, and therefore need to be looking for a permanent exit in the summer window.

With that, Leeds could be getting a decent bit of cash through to reinvest in the squad through either youth signings or a senior arrival.

Relegation to the Championship is unlikely to give any of these players a lifeline, as they continue to either struggle at their current club, or just aren’t to the required standard.

Should Adam Forshaw retire?

Yes

Yes

No

No

Who should be first-choice at right-back?

Leeds have three senior right-backs on the books right now, with Luke Ayling and Rasmus Kristensen competing for the starting spot under Javi Gracia.

Meanwhile, Cody Drameh is again showcasing with a half-season loan that he is one of the best right-backs in the Championship, as he enjoys a stint at play-off chasing Luton.

Heading into 2023/24, Leeds will still have all three after Ayling penned a new deal, and there is a decision to be made about who should be starting.

Drameh will only have 12 months left on his deal from July 1, and that is something that needs to be addressed, because he’s done more than enough to be given the chance here.

Quiz: How well do you know Leeds United head coach Javi Gracia? Find out here…

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What nationality is Gracia?

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Leeds United season ticket holder since 2013/14, currently situated in the middle of the FA5 noise. From Pablo Hernandez to 5-1 drubbings, I've seen it all at Elland Road.