33-year-old steps up for Millwall in promotion push despite future uncertainty: Opinion.
Millwall has a largely young group, yet players such as Ryan Leonard have demonstrated their worth and are critical to the club’s success.
Millwall has been without Caleb Taylor for the last two games due to injury, but Ryan Leonard has kept the Lions’ momentum going.
Millwall are in excellent form right now and appear to be on track to make the play-offs at least once this season.
The Lions are now third in the table, just one point behind the automatic places, with nine points separating them from outside the top six.
Alex Neil’s side has lost only in their past seven games, but their recent two triumphs have sent a strong message to the rest of the Championship.
The South London club defeated Birmingham City 3-0 last Tuesday before winning 2-0 away against Preston North End over the weekend.
Caleb Taylor, the Lions’ centre-back, was missing for those games due to a foot ailment.
Ryan Leonard was chosen as his successor, with Tristan Crama shifting to centre and the 33-year-old playing right-back.
Leonard has been a star in both games, scoring last weekend against the Lilywhites, and has played an important part this season.
With the defender’s contract expiring this summer, Millwall must make a choice on his future.
Ryan Leonard adds value to Millwall squad
Millwall has a youthful group, thus they must keep experienced players who can contribute to their success.
George Saville and Shaun Hutchinson left last summer, leaving Leonard as one of the team’s more experienced players.
The 33-year-old is still an important component of Neil’s team, and his playing time has not decreased despite new players joining the club.
Granted, the right-back position has not been reinforced, but the defender has demonstrated his abilities when called upon.
Leonard’s recent performances, following his last appearance in early January, demonstrate his professionalism and the importance of keeping him at The Den.
The veteran understands his position for the South London club and plays it to perfection.Millwall
should consider a new contract for Leonard
Millwall will face a number of choices this summer on who to maintain and who to sell.The Lions are set to spend heavily at the end of the season, regardless of whether they earn promotion.
The South London club does need a new right-back, but with Wes Harding expected to go, keeping Leonard could be useful.
The 33-year-old has been at the Den since 2018 and has performed particularly well since moving to defence.
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