Leeds United defender Robin Koch has hinted at him and others staying put at Elland Road this summer, even if the Whites are relegated to the Championship.
The Lowdown: Leeds face defining period
Jesse Marsch's side have an enormous couple of months coming up, as they desperately battle to remain in the Premier League this season.
Leeds essentially have nine cup finals between now and May, with the likes of Everton, Watford and Burnley all in the mix to avoid the drop.
Should relegation happen, there is always the risk of a squad exodus this summer but some fresh comments suggest that may not be the case.
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The Latest: Koch hints at summer stay
Speaking to Sky Deutschland [via Sport Witness], Koch claimed the squad will go down together and look to bounce straight back up:
"We’re not going down. And if so, then I believe that the team will stand together. We agree that we’ll go down together then."
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The Verdict: Great team spirit
These are encouraging and heartwarming words to hear from Koch, who has been hailed as 'magnificent' by Noel Whelan in the past, and it highlights the team spirit that exists at Elland Road.
The hope is that relegation is avoided, of course, but if that isn't the case, it is imperative that Marsch does all he can to keep a key nucleus of players around, even if a couple of the most valuable stars depart.
Indeed, Leeds may have to accept that they lose top assets such as Kalvin Phillips, Raphinha and Patrick Bamford, but they could still come straight back up if they keep hold of players like Koch, especially with new signings also coming in after receiving big money for their outgoing heroes.
In other news, a journalist has made a key claim regarding one Leeds defender. Read more here.