Daniel Farke says one Leeds player’s fitness has improved massively, he’s now running so much further

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Daniel Farke believes Joel Piroe has massively improved his fitness level in recent weeks, which has led to him getting more end product for Leeds United.

Piroe was going through a bit of a dry spell in front of goal between the October and November international break, which prompted Farke to deliver a 13-minute long answer on his use of the 24-year-old.

However, Piroe is now firmly back amongst the goals, scoring in three of his last four matches, including against former club Swansea City.

Farke was asked about Piroe’s improved end product in his pre-match press conference ahead of this weekend’s trip to Blackburn Rovers, with him now averaging a goal every two matches.

He said: “End products are always crucial for players, Joel also shines for the team, the distance he’s covered in last games, 12-13kms. Also due to an improved fitness level. I think this is quite crucial.

“Took so much of the spotlight from the opponents’ defence that it’s allowed Summerville or James to shine, perhaps with an unexpected number of goals.

“He creates space, but also his workload for his whole team, to have a good balance between defence and offense, to already score eight goals and I am really pleased with him.”

Piroe proving his worth

Questions were beginning to be asked about Piroe’s suitability in this Leeds team at times over the last two months, but now really looks as though he is right at home.

Piroe was more involved against both Swansea City and Middlesbrough than he has been in most matches this season, which is a big positive considering his quality on the ball.

As Farke alluded to, Piroe’s work in the middle allows the likes of Crysencio Summerville and Dan James to shine out wide, with their goal tallies way beyond what anyone expected.

His off the ball work has also been called into question at times but his improved fitness levels, and Farke’s tactical adjustments has also seen that improve.

Leeds were in need of a goalscorer when they signed Piroe in the summer and that is exactly what they got, but he is now really starting to offer plenty more.