No-one of a Leeds United persuasion had heard of Caleb Ekuban ahead of his summer move to Elland Road last summer. If they tell you they had, they’re lying.
The Villafranca di Verona born 24-year-old Ghanaian arrived from Chievo Verona in the summer after a season playing in the top tier of Albanian football with FK Partizani. 34 games in the Kategoria Superiore brought 17 goals and five assists – this output catching the eye of the Whites new management structure.
There was a lot of scoffing from Leeds United fans that the Whites were buying crumbs of comfort cast from the transfer table, rather than going for someone of quality. The 17 goals in Albanian football obviously was not impressing the United fans enough to endorse him immediately.
However, and despite a broken foot, Ekuban has battled away and has, slowly, begun to win around the fans with his energy and willingness. Yes there have been those who have criticised the youngster for his wayward shooting and missed opportunities during a game – these concerns still continue.
Before today, the youngster had featured in 13 Sky Bet Championship games for the Whites, 13 unlucky games without bothering the history books. Today it was Lucky 14 on Good Friday as Caleb Ekuban reacted quickly before putting the Whites into an early lead.
Caleb Ekuban GOAL v Bolton #LUFC pic.twitter.com/AgvclahhYs
— #WALMOT (@WALM0T33) March 30, 2018
Finally the Ghanaian/Italian had his first league goal for the Whites, something of a weight lifted from his shoulders. Leeds fans were relieved that they’d gotten off to an early start through Ekuban, the Whites going on to win an entertaining game by a 2-1 scoreline.
Leeds United fans comment on Ekuban early opening goal
Never doubted him
— darling in the franxx theme is stuck in my head (@Lord_Dylanoo) March 30, 2018
The smiling prince!
— Tomi Oladipo (@Tomi_Oladipo) March 30, 2018
Do his confidence a world of good that!
— Paul Crowe (@CroweLUFC92) March 30, 2018
— Stu Bradford (@sbrad84) March 30, 2018
the messiah
— (@CalebEkubanter) March 30, 2018
— josh batty (@joshbatty1995) March 30, 2018
Come on more goals please
— Melissa Ann Capes (@Melissaanncapes) March 30, 2018