Graham Smyth has told the Yorkshire Evening Post that Leeds United star Ethan Ampadu was visibly ‘frustrated’ on Saturday during our 0-0 draw with Sheffield Wednesday – by a lack of movement up top.
Ampadu, 22, started for the seventh time this season – in our seventh game. The Wales star has played every single minute this season, the only player to do so. He was crucial in Leeds getting a clean sheet.
Our first of the season, on Saturday. But, another frustrating result as Leeds picked up a third draw – just six points from five league games. The international break might have come for us at just the right time.
Ampadu saw plenty of the ball. The £7m man boasted our third-most touches behind Jamie Shackleton and Pascal Struijk, behind the duo with 71 passes. WhoScored say he completed nine of 11 long balls.
But, Smyth say Ampadu grew frustrated as the game went on. He says the lack of movement from Joel Piroe and Georginio Rutter annoyed Ampadu, as Leeds searched for the breakthrough at Elland Road.
“Ampadu was an animated figure. He was dishing out words of wisdom to Piroe, gesturing for Rutter to run in behind to give him an option, growing frustrated with the lack of passing opportunities at times.”
Smyth says Leeds star Ampadu frustrated by lack of movement
Plenty to work on and the relationship between Piroe and Rutter is going to need a few games to get going. But as said, the international break has come at the right time for Leeds – and Piroe, and Rutter.
The duo have not been called up to play for their countries this week – meaning they will stay at Thorp Arch. It will allow them to continue to get to know each other and strike that bond that Leeds need.
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