Ex-Leeds United star's on-air World Cup reunion with Elland Road scout | OneFootball

Former Leeds United scout Gaby Ruiz and Crysencio Summerville were reunited on air in DAZN’s World Cup coverage after the Netherlands’ tournament opener against Japan. As reported by yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk, the pair met during a post-match interview.

Ruiz was appointed head of European recruitment at Elland Road in 2017 after working with Victor Orta at Middlesbrough and Elche. Both left Leeds in 2023 following Javi Gracia’s sacking and relegation to the Championship.

Ruiz later worked with Orta at Sevilla and is part of his current set-up at Real Valladolid. With a background in broadcast journalism, he also works for DAZN, which enabled the reunion.

Summerville was recruited from Feyenoord in 2020 for around £1.5m, patient as an 18-year-old, then a first-team regular under Daniel Farke during the promotion push. He hit 21 goals and 10 assists in 2023/24. Defeat in the Wembley play-off final preceded his exit, with West Ham activating a release clause for about £28m.

Ronald Koeman handed Summerville his first senior World Cup call-up, and he scored in the Netherlands opener against Japan. On air, Ruiz asked if he remembered him, offered warm congratulations and recalled telling him he would reach a World Cup and score, sentiments Summerville repaid with thanks to Ruiz and Victor Orta. Ruiz closed with encouragement and forecast a victory over Sweden.

Summerville’s club future is uncertain after West Ham’s relegation from the Premier League. His World Cup involvement is likely to draw bids from big-league clubs that could test West Ham’s resolve in the summer window.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk