'Normally 10 out of 10' — Leeds United boss Daniel Farke's Thorp Arch insight of teenage prospect on big day — YEP 9/2/25
By Graham Smyth
A teen Leeds United prospect was given a big chance in
Saturday’s FA Cup clash against Millwall.
Sam Chambers' finishing ability in training was part of
Leeds United boss Daniel Farke's reasoning for picking the 17-year-old to play
against Millwall.
Chambers' performance showed 'glimpses' of what can be
expected from the teen in future according to his boss.
Playing wide right, Chambers got himself involved heavily
early on and was at the heart of some of Leeds' best moments.
He created a chance for Willy Gnonto with an accurate cross,
picked up a loose ball on the edge of the box and lashed a shot over the top
and then took an Isaac Schmidt pass to cut inside and force Liam Roberts into a
good stop.
Both of the chances were the kind of situations from which
Chambers ordinarily profits at Thorp Arch, said Farke who was seen deep in
conversation with the youngster more than once in the first half.
"A few tactical hints and technical hints, what he
could do better against this man-orientated Millwall side, to buy a bit more
space," said the German.
"Such a young player has to adapt to the physicality of
a pretty experienced Championship side.
“I didn't want to overdo it before the game, these are
important experiences. He brings himself into pretty interesting situations,
some channel runs to have some good chances. In training normally he scores 10
out of 10 in such situations. But I can't expect a 17-year-old, a bit nervous,
to have the calmness he has in training."
Farke paid tribute to the teen, who came off during the
second half as Leeds tried in vain to find a way back from a 2-0 deficit, and
declared himself content with what Chambers produced on his full debut.
"It was a big day for him and his family, he was there
with a really solid performance," said Farke.