Leeds battle to keep star

Monday, 16/01/2012

by Tom Mordey, Shoot's Leeds blogger

Despite continuous rumours linking several of Leeds’ best players with moves away in January, there is one figure that supporters will be desperate to see still entering the home dressing room.

Robert Snodgrass, since his move from Livingston in 2008 has established himself as the key player in the Whites’ starting XI and he has underlined his value on many occasions this season.

Snodgrass again demonstrated his importance to Simon Grayson’s side, scoring the equaliser against Crystal Palace, having returned after an appendix operation that ruled him out for the best part of two weeks. His absence was indeed noticeable as Leeds suffered a period of poor form over Christmas that saw his manager placed firmly in the firing line.

His nine goals in 22 games this season represent a decent return for the winger, who has firmly developed as Leeds United’s go-to man.

Although the Whites occupy mid-table at the moment, ‘Snoddy’ has undoubtedly kept the side in touch with the play-offs, often turning matches on his own, indeed take note of his two goal salvo that helped the side on their way to victory over Burnley earlier in the season!

It could be difficult for Leeds to hang onto Snodgrass in this transfer window, as the Scotland international looks to increase his burgeoning reputation as one of the best players outside the top flight.

Norwich had a £3.5m bid turned down for him in the summer and with Paul Lambert’s side performing miracles on their return to the Premier League, Snodgrass could well be tempted to test himself on the bigger stage.

This would represent a serious blow to the Whites’ chances of a play-off finish, indeed when Snodgrass underperforms, the whole team often struggles.

Whilst Leeds may resist any bids this transfer window, failure to win promotion this season (which looks likely at this present time) could put an end to the Scot’s time at Elland Road.

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