Max Wober contract latest update announce: Everything Leeds fans need to know amid latest injury news, key players

It initially seemed as though his touch had sent the ball out for a goal kick.

However, 30 minutes into Sunday’s FA Cup tie against Norwich City, Gabriel Gudmundsson stretched every muscle to keep the move alive, sliding a cross toward Sean Longstaff. In a moment that echoed the flair of Dennis Bergkamp or Dele Alli, Longstaff flicked the ball up with his left foot, spun, and smashed a powerful shot with his right.

At last, after creating 22 chances this season, Gudmundsson recorded his first assist for Leeds United.

The Swedish left-back has emerged as one of the team’s standout performers after a difficult start to life in West Yorkshire.

While his goal contributions took longer than expected, his attacking quality has been evident since the opening moments of the season, when he caused Everton’s Jake O’Brien serious problems.

His defending, however, initially raised concerns.

In the first half of the campaign, most of the goals Leeds conceded came from attacks down their left side. The issue reached its peak before their late-November trip to the Etihad to face Manchester City.

Leeds entered that match having allowed seven of their previous eight goals from Gudmundsson’s flank.

Daniel Farke responded by reshuffling the entire left side, but within 25 minutes Leeds were already 2-0 behind, making it clear the problem was structural rather than down to individual players.

A switch to a three-man defence at half-time resolved the issue and proved to be a turning point in Leeds’ season.

Gudmundsson then produced his strongest defensive display of the campaign in the next match, completely shutting down Chelsea’s Estevao. The Brazilian was substituted at half-time as Leeds secured a 3-1 victory.

If the Swede can now add consistent goal contributions to his impressive Premier League performances, Leeds may have found their ideal left-back in Gudmundsson—who, at £10 million, looks like one of last summer’s best bargains.