Ex-Leeds United star reunites on air with Elland Road scout after World Cup goal | OneFootball

Gaby Ruiz, the former Leeds United scout who helped sign Crysencio Summerville, enjoyed an on-screen reunion with the winger after his World Cup goal. According to yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk, the pair met during DAZN's post-match coverage.

Ronald Koeman handed Summerville his first senior call-up for the tournament, and he scored in the Netherlands' opener against Japan. DAZN then brought him together on air with studio analyst Ruiz.

Ruiz became Leeds' head of European recruitment in 2017 after working with Victor Orta at Middlesbrough and Elche. They left Elland Road in 2023 after Javi Gracia's sacking and relegation to the Championship. Ruiz later reunited with Orta at Sevilla and now works in his Real Valladolid set-up, while also serving as a DAZN analyst.

He helped recruit Summerville from Feyenoord in 2020 for around £1.5m. The Dutch forward, then 18, waited for chances but grew into a first-team regular under Daniel Farke as Leeds chased promotion. He won several awards in 2023/24 after 21 goals and 10 assists.

Defeat in the play-off final at Wembley effectively ended his Leeds spell, with West Ham United activating a release clause for a fee in the region of £28m.

On air, Ruiz reminded Summerville he had predicted a World Cup stage for him and offered heartfelt congratulations, while the player thanked Ruiz and Victor Orta for their faith. Ruiz also tipped the Netherlands to beat Sweden next. Summerville's club future is uncertain after West Ham's relegation from the Premier League, and his World Cup displays could invite bids that test the club's resolve this summer.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk