It is not long until several of Leeds United’s squad are jetting off to represent their respective countries again.
Leeds had the most international call-ups of any Championship side during the break earlier this month. It is likely to be the same again in October.
With Leeds in action against Sheffield United on the Friday straight after the next break, Daniel Farke has already expressed his discontent at the scheduling.
Wilfried Gnonto, Mateo Joseph, Ilia Gruev and Ao Tanaka are all in action on the Tuesday before the match. Brenden Aaronson, meanwhile, is away in Mexico, with kick-off in the early hours of Wednesday.
Leeds were lethargic in the defeat to Burnley in their first game back after the last break. It could be even worse when the Blades travel to Elland Road.
Leeds duo Sam Chambers and Rory Mahady earn Scotland recognition
While it is going to be a frustrating period for Farke to lose the majority of his squad for the best part of two weeks, it is still a proud time for players.
Youngsters in particular still looking to force their way into the senior game will see this as a crucial step in their development, and two of Leeds’ most talented in the U21s have been rewarded.
Teenaged duo Sam Chambers and Rory Mahady have both been named in the upcoming Scotland U19s squad after their promising starts to the season at Leeds.
Chambers has made two appearances for the U21s this season, though did pick up a red card in his last outing at Wolves. He was on the bench for the first team at Sheffield Wednesday.
Mahady, meanwhile, has played 90 minutes in all four of Leeds’ Premier League Two matches, and is a highly rated young goalkeeper. He played twice for Scotland U19s in the previous break.
Chambers has only just turned 17 and so will be playing two years above his age group, an impressive feat on the international stage. He is looking for his first cap at this age group.
Daniel Farke already has Chambers on Leeds radar
As mentioned, Chambers has already had a small taste of first team action. To have been on the bench just five days after his 17th birthday is impressive.
But it was actually at 16 when Chambers first made a name for himself. He scored in Leeds’ first pre-season friendly of the summer against Harrogate Town, and was part of the travelling squad for the tour of Germany.
Farke has already spoke publicly about Chambers’ talent, though typically erred on the side of caution.
He said: “I don’t like to talk too much in public especially if they haven’t played one minute competitively. 16 years old, in the spotlight but I don’t like to put too much weight on their shoulders.
“We see a lot of potential in him, and from a physical point he is pretty far ahead of his age. It is not very often you have a player like him in the squad. But there are no guarantees, you have to show something.
“He is adapting, improving week to week but I can’t predict if he’s ready to start a game. He’s improving and we like him, a really bright guy and open to learn. We want to keep him.”
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