‘Doesn’t phase him’… Neil Redfearn blown away by 21-year-old’s mentality in Leeds United win

Add as preferred source on Google

Neil Redfearn has praised Georginio Rutter for his work rate and general play in Leeds United’s win over Middlesbrough.

Rutter was below his usual brilliant best in the 3-2 success at Elland Road, as the three attackers around him grabbed the headlines for getting on the scoresheet once again.

With good chances in either half, Rutter could’ve easily found himself on the scoresheet for the second consecutive match, but it just was not his day in front of goal.

However, speaking to BBC Radio Leeds, Redfearn believes Rutter brings a whole lot more to matches than just goals, with his understanding with Joel Piroe and quality on the ball drawing praise.

Rutter won the penalty for Piroe to net Leeds‘ third of the afternoon and was also sharp in and around the box, even if not quite at his very creative best.

Rutter allows others to flourish

Redfearn believes that Rutter’s style of play makes it easier for those around him and while he does miss a large amount of chances, his mentality to keep getting in the right positions should be admired.

“I think his general play is excellent. I do. Honestly, I think his game understanding is really good. I think his link up play with Piroe is probably a key feature of Leeds United’s play. They do it really well. Their understanding of one another is really good.

“Athletic, really works for the team, grafts for the team, chases down. It makes it so much easier for the midfielder and the back lads when you’ve Rutter down the middle because the defenders haven’t got a minute, puts them under pressure.

“At this moment, the thing that’s probably just letting him down a little bit is his finishing. And sadly for him, if you’re a striker, you’re judged on goals as well as his general play.

“The one thing I really like about is it doesn’t phase him. He keeps getting in those positions and if you get in them positions enough, and you work on your finishing, you’ll score goals. It’s as simple as that.”

Rutter has certainly had better performances for Leeds this season, none more so than on Wednesday night when his goal drew comparisons to Dennis Bergkamp.

However, without his selfless attitude in the final third, other players perhaps would not be enjoying the success they have done this season.

His finishing is definitely something he can work on, but as long as he is still contributing with his general play, he will always be a menace for defences.