Leeds United ace feels “much better” after peculiar international decision last week
Leeds United midfielder Ilia Gruev made his second appearance of the international break for Bulgaria as they lost against Montenegro away from home.
Leeds’ Championship season has been halted as a host of players jetted off for international duty over the past week.
New signings Glen Kamara and Ilia Gruev were barely in the doors before travelling out to Europe to represent their nations.
A friendly against Iran on Thursday brought a 1-0 defeat for Gruev and Bulgaria, with the Leeds midfielder playing on the left side of a back three.
The game’s only goal came through a mistake from the 23-year-old as a loose header was capitalised on by Iran to take the lead.
His second outing of the international break came on Sunday as they travelled to Montenegro for the sixth European Championship qualification match, only to lose 2-1 in stoppage time as Stefan Jovetic fired in the winner.
What has he said about his performance?
After struggling in a bizarre centre-back position last week, Gruev did much better in midfield as they ran the game close, only to suffer late on.
Spreading the play very well from the middle of midfield, Gruev helped tee up a number of chances for the away side that went begging, only for heartbreak in the 96th minute.
Speaking to Trud, Gruev was happy to be back in the middle of the park:
Gruev looks like a very tidy player in possession and someone that is going to add a great deal next to Ethan Ampadu.
His range of passing is sure to be a valued asset in the Championship as we look to dominate games, but also have to break down low blocks each week.
The depth he brings alongside Archie Gray and Glen Kamara will be crucial in the long slog that is the Championship promotion race.
