Two Reasons Why David Stockdale Would Be A Good Buy For Leeds
It remains to be seen whether David Stockdale will risk his place in newly-promoted Brighton’s squad next season by signing a new deal. The £15,000-a-week goalkeeper is wanted by Leeds United and also Premier League side Chelsea, with Brighton possibly looking to bring a new ‘keeper in for their Premier League debut next season.
There is no doubting that Stockdale is a quality player, but why would he be a good signing for Leeds if the Elland Road club could manage to tempt him to Yorkshire? Former England ‘keeper Rob Green is already at Leeds United and is might not move on this summer. Here we explore two key reasons why Stockdale would be ideal:
He Has Premier League Quality
Unlike defenders and midfielders, there is not much room for goalkeeping talent at football clubs. Most sides play with 4 or even 5 defenders in each game and ideally require at least 8 players of sufficient class for their Premier League squads.
The same can be said of midfielders and since they are versatile to a point, regular chances are created for players to play. In the case of goalkeepers though, it is a very special position and it is not a position that sees many injuries or suspensions.
Because of that, many sides employ only one ‘keeper of real Premier League quality, meaning that chances are few and far in the top division. Stockdale may yet be one of those unlucky goalkeepers who missed out, though there is no doubt that he is Premier League class.
Named in the Championship Team of the Year this season, his performances have regularly kept Brighton alive in games and he has been a big reason why they have become a top level team. If Leeds could nab him, they would have a player capable of playing at a higher level.
His Experience
Stockdale is 31 now and has amassed almost 300 league appearances at various levels for Darlington, Rotherham, Fulham, Leicester, Plymouth, Ipswich, Hull City and Brighton. The know how and calmness is so valuable at this level and would be massive for Leeds in what will ideally be a big promotion push.
Having had the recent experience of being promoted from this league with Brighton, he can bring live and relevant knowledge to the Leeds camp on how to get over the line. The fact that he is from Leeds and would be playing for his hometown team means all of his game experience would be a delight for them and would see him complete a full circle in his footballing career.
Comments are closed.