Leeds United: Botaka is yet to convince head coach Evans

Botaka is expected to be left out of United’s 18-man squad again for tomorrow’s clash at Ipswich Town and his immediate prospects look more uncertain after the arrival of Mustapha Carayol on loan from Middlesbrough last week.

Leeds brought in the 22-year-old from Dutch club Excelsior during the summer transfer window but he has started only two games and has not played under Evans since a 0-0 draw at Charlton Athletic four weeks ago.

Despite making four changes and losing players to injury, United’s head coach did not find room for Botaka on the bench during Saturday’s FA Cup clash with Rotherham United.

Evans said: “The kid’s working hard but working hard isn’t enough on its own. I can’t fault his endeavour and I can’t fault his desire. I know this chance means so much to him. But on top of all that there has to be end-product and he has to deliver performances. He’s had two or three chances and quite simply he hasn’t shown the ingredients which tell me he should be on the pitch.

“I’m not saying he can’t get better or won’t get a look-in because I will give players a chance. I started Lewie Coyle (against Rotherham) when I could easily have given him half-an-hour but half-an-hour wouldn’t have been fair. He’s earned a go. With Jordan, I’m not seeing the quality or the end-product I need to see. It’s that simple.”