Leeds United weakest link at the back remains left-back, with manager Thomas Christiansen undecided with which of Vurnon Anita and Gaetano Berardi to stick with in the position.
The duo hasn’t been able to truly convince up till now, while Manchester United youngster Cameron Borthwick-Jackson has had a frustrating loan spell at Elland Road.
With all 4 of Leeds’ Championship losses coming in their last 5 games, changes to the starting XI, including the left-back role, are pertinent.
There appears not to be a better time to give youth team defender Tom Pearce a chance than now.
The under-23 left-back came off the bench during the 1-nil win over Crewe on Friday, and he would have, without a doubt, impressed the watching Christiansen.
The 19-year-old more or less played as a left winger as there was little defending to do with Leeds under-23 pushing for a winner.
Pearce was constantly putting in crosses into the opposition box, while also coming close to opening the scoring with a freekick.
With a League Cup game against Leicester City approaching, perhaps, giving the teenager a chance seems only ideal for a manager in need of a quality left-back within his ranks.
Should Pearce impress, which he would likely do if given the chance, Christiansen shouldn’t hesitate to hand him first team opportunities. Such decision could go a long way in saving a campaign that has started nosediving.
