Leeds United rounded off their pre-season campaign with a hard-fought victory over Valencia at Elland Road, with Mateo Joseph and Georginio Rutter scoring before the break against La Liga opposition.
Leeds played some brilliant football going forward, but they were also sloppy in possession at times, with Daniel James in particular seeing passes sent in his direction often fly out for a throw-in.
But who shone and who perhaps missed an opportunity to impress – here are the player ratings from those who started the clash…
Illan Meslier – 6
Illan Meslier was not given a huge amount to do, but looked comfortable when called upon. Some of his passing was a bit questionable again unfortunately. He could do nothing about the late deflected goal for the visitors.
Jayden Bogle – 6.5
Jayden Bogle was not able to fly forward as much as he probably would have liked, but there were definitely glimpses that suggest that his partnership with Daniel James is going to cause serious problems this season – as long as the injury which saw him taken off is not too serious.
Joe Rodon – 7.5
Some of Joe Rodon‘s passing was a little bit off, but he picked up where he left off defensively, producing such a commanding performance.
Pascal Struijk – 6.5
Leeds were occasionally nervy in the first-half when Valencia did attack, but that seems understandable given how long Pascal Struijk spent on the sidelines last season. He should have doubled Leeds’ lead inside the first 20 minutes when he had a free header from a corner.
Junior Firpo – 7.5
Leeds got a glimpse of why they would be wise to keep Junior Firpo this summer and take the risk that he may leave on a free next year. He played such a key role in the opening goal, and looks to be building a really impressive understanding with Wilfried Gnonto.
Ethan Ampadu – 8
It was hard for Leeds’ midfielders, particularly in the first-half, but Ethan Ampadu was in no mood to look at this as a pre-season friendly, getting stuck right in and making sure to frustrate the Valencia players as much as possible. He did also play a couple of sublime passes.
Ilia Gruev – 6
Further signs that Ilia Gruev is going to be expected to get forward more this year, but he was largely quiet on Saturday. The Bulgarian did nothing wrong, but may be feeling some pressure from Joe Rothwell heading into the opening day of the season.
Daniel James – 6
Daniel James’ low score is hardly his fault as he was the player who suffered most from the side’s wayward passing.
Georginio Rutter – 9
Georginio Rutter was, by far, the best player on the pitch. After a few poor touches, Georginio quickly grew into the contest and completely stole the show. His goal was absolutely stunning, and it almost felt as though the Valencia defenders gave up trying to take the ball off of him during the second-half.
Mateo Joseph – 8
Mateo Joseph produced the kind of performance which should arguably write his name on the team sheet next week. His goal was brilliantly taken, and some of his link up play was excellent. The Spaniard looks ready to enjoy his breakout season at Leeds.
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