Leeds returned from the international break with a crucial 2-0 win over Sheffield United at Elland Road on Friday night, marking an important victory against a fellow promotion contender.
After a goalless first half, Leeds stepped up their game in the second half. Pascal Struijk broke the deadlock in the 69th minute, and Mateo Joseph sealed the victory with a late goal in the 90th minute, securing all three points.
Illan Meslier bounced back from the previous draw with Sunderland, putting in a solid performance and keeping a clean sheet. After drawing against West Bromwich Albion, Norwich City, and Sunderland this season, along with a loss to Burnley, this win against a promotion rival is a significant confidence boost for the team.
Leeds United’s new midfield duo shines
Ao Tanaka and Joe Rothwell were likely Leeds’ two standout performers in their victory over Sheffield United. Following the impressive result, Leigh Bromby feels that Rothwell had a slight edge on the night.
“You know what? I think Rothwell just because of the drive and the little bits he has had going forward. They are two different types of players,” Bromby said on BBC Leeds (h/t LeedsUnited.News).
“Tanaka is obviously the tidy one, the one that drops into the defenders. And Rothwell has got to make things happen. Yeah, they have both been very good at what they have done tonight.”
Manager Daniel Farke mentioned that both players have had to adjust their style because of the injuries to Ampadu and Gruev, and he’s really pleased with how well they’ve managed to do that.
“Their best performance in this combination,” Farke said at his press conference. “We need this against a good side. No, forget Rothwell has hardly played 90 minutes for two years. A more attacking minded player.
“Tanaka the same. They have to be more disciplined. Had to adapt the system and be more dominant with the ball an careful with our passes because we don’t have the same protection in front of defence.
“We worked a lot with them individually. Improved from game to game. Ampadu and Gruev will be welcomed back because relying on tonight’s two would be too much for 46 games.”
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