It is fair to say even Leeds United’s best players are not in good form at the moment. The draw against Luton Town saw Daniel Farke’s most-reliable stars struggle to perform.
It’s not the first time, either. In the last few games, Farke’s most-consistent stars have failed to perform and that even includes Ethan Ampadu who was uncharacteristically poor in the draw against Swansea.
He had of course, just come back from injury. But Leeds’ best players are not performing at the moment and it is hampering Leeds’ promotion push. The Yorkshire side have now slipped to third after Saturday.
Leeds failed to beat 23rd-placed Luton, with The Whites unable to get the better of The Hatters. Farke criticised Ao Tanaka after full-time while Leeds fans are desperate to see Manor Solomon taken out.
One Leeds United star lost 16 of his 17 duels on Saturday at Luton
Joe Rodon, Jayden Bogle, Junior Firpo and the rest of the Leeds side will all admit they did not enjoy their best performances on Saturday. Neither will Joel Piroe, who has now gone six matches without scoring.
Farke described Piroe as the Championship’s best goalscorer, but the Dutchman has failed to add to his 15 goals this season of late. On Saturday, his goals were not the only problem as he struggled physically.
Involved in 17 duels, Piroe lost 16 of them A woeful statistic that hands proof to those who suggest he is not physically the best in attack. Another decision for Farke ahead of Tuesday night’s trip to The Riverside.
Joel Piroe’s stats vs Luton:
- 79 minutes played, 5.4 FotMob rating (worst of any player, starting or sub)
- Three touches in opposition box, three unsuccessful dribbles, 0 successful
- 35 touches, 15 successful passes, five misplaced
- Three defensive actions, two clearances, two headed clearances
- One duel won, 16 lost
Daniel Farke has got to consider dropping Joel Piroe
Illan Meslier’s poor form has seen him dropped, while Leeds fans want Solomon axed because he is failing to provide his best. If that is the case, then Piroe needs to be axed from the side after a run of poor form.
Six games without a goal or assist is bad, but does not tell the whole story. His woeful FotMob rating and losing 16 of 17 duels is inexcusable, Farke must drop the £16m man when Leeds go to Middlesbrough.
Mateo Joseph was ill against Middlesbrough and it is unclear if he will be available on Tuesday. Patrick Bamford however, played 30 minutes and looked sharp against Luton – perhaps, he gets an unlikely start.
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