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Encouraging “leadership” claim made about Leeds United ace on international duty

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Simon Rusk believes Leeds United midfielder Darko Gyabi has “stepped up” to his leadership role with the England Under-19 squad.

Leeds United pair Gyabi and Sonny Perkins helped the England’s Under-19s to a 1-0 win over Hungary in Under-19 European Championships qualifying last night.

Gyabi, a summer arrival from Manchester City, was skippering the Young Lions. The 19-year-old signed for a reported fee of around £5million, as per The Athletic.

Quiz: 15 questions about Leeds United’s Darko Gyabi – Can you score 100%?

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Where did Leeds sign Gyabi from?

How is Gyabi developing at the moment?

Gyabi has had to bide his time for minutes at senior level, but has played three games for the first-team, including a full debut in the EFL Cup against Wolves.

The Yorkshire Evening Post interviewed Gyabi’s England U-19 boss post-match, where he outlined his reasonings for giving Gyabi the role of captain, Rusk said: “He’s got real energy.

“I think what I do have is, there are a few players who would possibly be deserving of the armband.”

Rusk has been impressed with Gyabi growing into the position, he added: “Obviously, we had the camp in September and Darko lent himself to some leadership roles, he captained the group in one of the games.

“We lost [former captain] Sammy Braybrooke unfortunately, due to a nasty injury earlier in the season, so Darko’s stepped up to that well.”

If Leeds are relegated this summer, then Gyabi has to play more of a key role in the Championship.

However, if the Whites stay up, then a loan may be the next best step in his development. Gyabi is a fantastic talent and needs the game time at senior level.

His exploits at youth level with England are another feather in his cap, and only further showcase a rising reputation. Leeds need to make sure there is a pathway into their first-team plans eventually, regardless of division they are in.

Gyabi showing captain qualities will also be good for him in the long-term, too. Rusk’s comments will have done a lot for his confidence and personal growth.

Is Gyabi a smart signing?

Yes

Yes

No

No

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