Blackburn Rovers’ geographical advantage has helped them land Leeds United left-back, Barry Douglas, ahead of Watford.  

Leeds are looking to streamline their squad today, with Douglas’ departure seemingly on the cards.

Tony Mowbray is set to land the 31-year-old’s signature for Blackburn, ahead of Watford, who were also interested. The left-back was undergoing a medical yesterday ahead of his move to Ewood Park.

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Furthermore, it’s been revealed by Adam Leventhal that geography has played a part in Douglas’ decision to go with Blackburn over Watford, given the fact that it’s a short journey over the Pennines for the Scot and his young family.

Douglas has won two Championship titles in the space of the last three seasons. He’s helped both Wolves and Leeds to the title, either side of finishing in the play-off places with the Whites.

In total, the full-back has made 45 appearances for Leeds in his career, but hasn’t made a Premier League appearance in the opening weeks of the 2020/21 season.

His outstanding season in the Championship came in 2017/18 with Wolves, when Douglas scored five goals and registered 14 assists as Nuno Santo’s side stormed to the title.

The Verdict  

This was something that had been on my mind as speculation surrounded Douglas.

It was hard to imagine him making the long trip from Leeds to Watford, with Blackburn much more local and potentially meaning he didn’t even have to move house.

Of course, other factors will have been key and the project at Blackburn looks an attractive one.

Mowbray’s side should have play-off ambitions and, in my eyes, Douglas increases their potential of challenging for promotion.

Thoughts? Let us know!