By Georg – I think he’s got it
GEORGINIO RUTTER is proving a big-money flop at Leeds – but boss Javi Gracia claims he is destined for a “brilliant future”.
The relegation-threatened Whites paid Bundesliga Hoffenheim £35million to make Rutter their club-record signing in January.
But the 20-year-old Frenchman has failed to find the net in 11 appearances – and has started just one Premier League game since arriving at Elland Road.
Gracia was asked on why, in a team struggling for goals, Rutter had been used so sparingly. The Leeds boss replied: “Georgio’s had some chances.
“In the time I’ve been here, he’s started some games and played some minutes in others.
“It’s true he’s not had continuity but I’m sure when we have more chances he will show his quality and help the team. But I have to decide and try to choose what I think is best for the team.”
Struggled
Gracia denied Rutter had struggled to adapt to the demands of English football, claiming every new overseas signing needs time to settle.
Crucially, as Leeds look to bounce back from last week’s shocking 5-1 home surrender against Crystal Palace in tonight’s visit of Liverpool, Gracia is adamant Rutter can make an impact.
“Yes, of course, but not only Georgi,” he said. “All the new players who are coming to a new country, a new competition, all of them need time
– but not especially Georgi.
“Georgi is working very well, he’s a good character, and I’m sure his future will be brilliant.”
Leeds and Liverpool enjoyed a fierce rivalry in the 1960s and 1970s when they fought for supremacy at the top of
English football under legendary bosses Don Revie and Bill Shankly. Right now, Leeds are fighting relegation, while Liverpool have suffered a major slump this season.
Jurgen Klopp’s men will end the campaign without a trophy and appear certain to miss out on Champions League qualification.
Yet Gracia insisted: “Jurgen Klopp is an amazing manager, in my opinion.”