£4m Leeds star cannot be happy after Farke snub this week, will be needed on Saturday – Opinion

Leeds United drew 0-0 with Hull City on Wednesday night, and Daniel Farke decided to leave Charlie Cresswell out of the team – something the centre-back must be delighted about after signing a new contract.

Leeds should have taken the lead when Georginio Rutter missed a one-on-one opportunity. With Joe Rodon’s – albeit unjust – red card and Hull squandering a guilt-edged late chance, a clean sheet and a point looks solid.

Rodon and Pascal Struijk have formed an excellent partnership at centre-back with Liam Cooper injured. Charlie Cresswell has warmed the bench, starting only one game – the 1-0 defeat to Birmingham City.

However, with Cooper fit again after his injury against Cardiff City on the first day of the season, Cresswell was left out of the entire squad on Wednesday night. It comes after the 21-year-old agreed to a new contract.

With his previous deal ending in June 2024, Cresswell has penned a deal for another four years at Elland Road. But the England U21 man has been made fourth choice – when he might have expected to start.

Cresswell was linked with a £4m move to Middlesbrough in January, but a return to Leeds may have seen him become first choice – after relegation. But he’s still having trouble getting in.

Leeds centre-back Cresswell cannot be happy after Farke snub

It’s early days, and Cresswell’s omission could be for a cause. But, on the surface, it appears that Cresswell has been benched, with Cooper starting. Farke prefers to identify a single centre-back sub.

But Farke’s rejection will undoubtedly worry Cresswell. It’s possible he’ll knock on the German’s door this week, making him reconsider his choice to accept a new contract. On Saturday, he will be required.

With Rodon suspended for one game, it will be interesting to see who Farke brings in – the right-footed Cresswell, or, Cooper. It is likely to be the latter given the skipper came in on Wednesday night.