26-year-old left-back Scott Malone is reported to be a key target for Leeds United come January but Thomas Christiansen wouldn’t be drawn on the matter today, saying he is happy with the squad he has. We would expect him to say that but Leeds have been having issues with that position, and Malone isn’t getting a game down the road.
The full-back joined Huddersfield and David Wagner in the summer but has only started two games for the terriers which has led to speculation that Leeds may well come calling. The only natural left-back currently at the club can’t even get in the squad and it wouldn’t be a surprise to anyone if Cameron Borthwick-Jackson was recalled by Manchester United come January. He thought he would play, as did Manchester United but after a very good start Christiansen has chosen not to play him again. Vurnon Anita has been the first choice with Gaetano Berardi playing the last couple of games.
Malone is a very talented player and I am surprised Huddersfield have signed him and not made him the first choice at left-back but good form of last seasons players has meant his opportunities are very limited and he won’t be wanting to hang around if he isn’t playing, the lack of games at the peak of his career will be very frustrating. As I have said above Christiansen didn’t entertain the idea but you wouldn’t expect him to in a press conference. He said he didn’t need anyone else but deep down he will know that January is an opportunity to bring in some more strength in depth to the club.