Find the right position for Lewis Cook
It is fair to say that young Lewis Cook has learnt plenty about himself over the past season. He seems to have made the midfield position his own, the problem is that specific role seems to have changed far too often. It is perhaps down to his overall quality that he has been able to slot into other roles and do a decent job. Most Leeds fans would agree he isn’t a wide man, although he has come in field to good effect at times. Perhaps the number ten role is his best, but that of course depends on playing a system which implements that.
For Cook to play that number ten role, it may mean certain others have to miss out. That has generally been the conundrum for Leeds for a little while now. If they play a 4-2-3-1 system, then one of Chris Wood or Mirco Antenucci had to miss out, then Souleymane Doukara had a good run, so he is included in that equation. At least one seemed to be unavailable at all times, but playing two up front is Evans’ preferred way, but hasn’t always been able to do this. Playing in a 4-4-2 didn’t seem to suit Cook, especially if he ended up out wide. It was hard for him to have a central berth due to the form of Liam Bridcutt, and then one of Toumani Diagouraga or Luke Murphy.
The 19-year-old is clearly an individual with a very bright future. He has been heavily linked with moves away, with AFC Bournemouth being muted as a possible interested party earlier this season. Of course, there is no necessary guarantee he will be at Elland Road next season. If Steve Evans stays, one of his first priorities will be to keep him on board. Although, any new manager would surely do the same as well.
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