Noah Okafor nabbed his first goal in Leeds United colours following an £18m move from AC Milan in the summer, but there has been criticism too for the Switzerland international.
The Swiss attacker has been brought in as a bit of a marquee signing this summer, the second-biggest figure Leeds spent on any of their 10 summer signings. Midfielder Anton Stach cost Leeds around £19.9m.
Making his debut against Sheffield Wednesday, Okafor started his first Premier League game at Fulham. Then at Wolves, Okafor netted Leeds’ third goal. Stach won the ball back and put Okafor through on goal.
A neat finish. But it came after Okafor had lost the ball on a few occasions, waving his arms in the air at times. Jon Newsome blasted Okafor for losing it in his own half, saying Leeds can’t afford passengers.
Daniel Farke discusses Noah Okafor’s performance v Wolves
Okafor certainly lost the ball on a few occasions but that is not the reason the former AC Milan star is in the side. Okafor is in the side to create magic and that is why hard-working Brenden Aaronson is starting.
Speaking to reporters on Thursday in his press conference, Farke said that he criticised Okafor at half-time. He said that he didn’t accept Okafor losing the ball and urged him to get used to British physicality.
“I don’t accept this [losing the ball]. It needs to be criticised. At half-time, I told Noah, great goal, well-taken goal, looks sharp in his dribblings. But with the back to the opponent’s goal, he has to be stronger.
“He comes from a different league, the Premier League is more physical. Sometimes he’s claiming he’s been fouled instead of adapting, being rock solid. It is physical. His success rate in his duels can be better.
“His end product and goal threat is good. He can keep the ball better. We speak about this, we’re honest about it. Naturally, he is a player who takes risks. Timing is key, when to take a risk, when to keep it.”
How will Leeds United line-up in attack against Bournemouth?
Leeds take on a Bournemouth side that have made a brilliant start to the season. A total of 10 points from five games, sitting in fourth place. Last time out, they drew with Newcastle 0-0 – the same as Leeds.
Farke confirmed Willy Gnonto is missing for Saturday, but Dan James is in contention. Aaronson has been solid on the right and the chances are, he retains his place, especially if Farke continues to start Okafor.
With Okafor’s work rate and ability to keep the ball under the microscope, having a player like Aaronson on the other side is key. There is no doubt that Dominic Calvert-Lewin will continue to lead the line.
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