Ilia Gruev won the man of the match award on Tuesday as the Bulgarian ace continued to shine after being given a run in the side – but another Leeds player went under the radar with a perfect display.
Gruev was incredible. It is hard to remember a moment in which the left-footed midfielder lost the ball, and he won it back on so many occasions to recycle possession and maintain our attacking territory.
The 23-year-old was superb and in this form, it feels impossible to put Ethan Ampadu back in midfield, especially with the Wales ace starring at centre-back. But, he was not the only impressive Leeds player.
Plenty caught the eye. Joe Rodon and Sam Byram reliable as ever, while duo Georginio Rutter and Cree Summerville got a goal and an assist each in extra time. Willy Gnonto got his second goal in two games.
But at the back, Liam Cooper was incredible. The 32-year-old was handed only his third start of 2024, and given his injury and fitness issues over the last couple of years, 120 minutes was a big ask of him.
Leeds ace Liam Cooper went under the radar with perfect display
However, the skipper never put a foot wrong. One criticism of Cooper has been his lack of speed and his recovery runs this season – but FotMob say he produced seven recoveries, and five clearances during.
He completed 73 of 81 passes, a rate of 90%. Again, impressive, given Plymouth tried to press. Daniel Farke already had headaches with Pascal Struijk returning, Ampadu starring in the middle of defence.
Gruev stole the show, Rutter and Summerville efficient in front of goal. But in terms of players that went under the radar, Cooper was excellent. It gives Farke a decision to make come Saturday, vs Rotherham.
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