BBC pundit amazed by 21-year-old Leeds player’s display against Birmingham

Add as preferred source on Google

Aidy White has issued his verdict on the performance of Georginio Rutter after Leeds United’s emphatic win over Birmingham City on Monday.

Georginio Rutter got the chance to start at number 10 against the Blues. It comes with Joel Piroe enduring a difficult time in front of goal, having scored one goal in our last six games.

Patrick Bamford came in for a rare start to lead the line. And with that, the Frenchman dropped into a slightly deeper role against Wayne Rooney’s side.

Aidy White praises Georginio Rutter after Leeds win

It proved to be an inspired option. Bamford opened the scoring. And Georginio reminded everyone of his class, particularly in the build-up to the third goal, producing a delicious ball over the top for Junior Firpo.

And speaking to BBC Radio Leeds (1/1; 17:12), Aidy White suggested that the 21-year-old vindicated Daniel Farke’s decision to put him behind the striker at Elland Road on New Year’s Day.

“I thought he was terrific today in the 10,” he said. “I actually preferred him there, I think his assists show that it suits him as well with Bamford up there, it brings him an opportunity to link up really well. I thought they did that excellently.

“I just think he plays with a lot more freedom in that 10 to me. He’s not restricted, he likes to roam about the pitch, pick up balls in difficult areas for the opponent to mark him. And he causes a tremendous amount of difficulty for them. So I like him in that 10.”

Forward gives Daniel Farke plenty to ponder

Daniel Farke has previously made it abundantly clear that he has no interest in switching Georginio and Joel Piroe around. And for much of the season, that decision has paid off.

However, Piroe’s form has been underwhelming of late. The Dutchman can quite easily prove to be very quiet in games when he is not scoring. So a change was needed.

Of course, it is too soon to say whether Bamford is going to make Monday’s start the first of many over the coming months.

But Georginio showed exactly what he can offer when playing in the number 10 spot. And that should be leaving Farke with some food for thought.