Former Leeds United midfielder Andy Couzens has given his verdict on Archie Gray’s exit from Leeds United this summer.
For a while on Saturday, it appeared that English midfielder Archie Gray was heading to Brentford to play under Thomas Frank in London.
However, the deal then stalled which allowed Tottenham Hotspur to swoop in at the 11th hour and now, 72 hours later, the teenage sensation has been confirmed as a new signing for the Lilywhites.
The English midfielder was understood to be impressed after speaking to Ange Postecoglou as the Australian outlined his plans for the midfielder and this ultimately swung the deal in Spurs’ favour.
Couzens gives verdict on Leeds deal
Whilst this could prove to be an astute acqusition made by those in North London, as for Leeds, this could be a difficult pill to swallow.
Last season under Daniel Farke, the teenager was key for The Whites as he filled in, in multiple positions and was one of the club’s standout stars.
Whilst losing the teenager will be hard, Leeds have signed Welsh defender Joe Rodon after a spell last season at the club on loan and may feel positive about the situation.
Writing on X, former Leeds midfielder Andy Couzens, whilst upset about Gray’s departure, believes the Rodon signing is good business.
“I am genuinely gutted that Archie has left to go to Spurs,” Couzens said. “But I think it’s good for both with Rodon in and 30 mil is a good deal.
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“Remember, this isn’t (on) the club, there looks like a clause that the player has activated so let’s not all jump on the club for this sale!!
“Fans and the press feel we had to sell to be in FFP! I understand we didn’t have to sell to balance the books as much is being reported.
“Players come and go and Leeds United will always be there!! still a very strong group and hopefully a few more players in and keep this group!”
Leeds get great deal for Gray
If, as Couzens claims, there was a release clause in the deal for the 18-year-old, then the Yorkshire giants were left with little choice.
Whilst Gray has been an oustanding midfielder for The Whites, keeping him against his will could prove to be a mistake.
With 22-year-old defender Rodon coming in, who established himself as a firm fan’s favourite during his loan spell last season, as well as £30 million, Leeds may feel they have done very well from this deal.
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