Former Premier League midfielder Jamie Redknapp has praised one Leeds United star for a moment that “changes everything” in the build-up to their goal against Sunderland.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin was in the right place at the right time for Leeds once again as his seventh goal in six games helped his side earn a share of the points at the Stadium of Light.
Daniel Farke will be satisfied with the manner of his side’s goal, as they eschewed their recent direct approach to produce a moment Michael Bridges described as a goal of the season contender.
Leeds’ flowing team move started in their own box and involved all 11 players as the Whites recovered from the early loss of Joe Rodon through injury.
Redknapp praised one unsung Leeds hero for their role in the build-up to the goal after the game, as Farke’s side claimed another important point.
Who was your MOTM for Leeds against Sunderland? 🤔
Some excellent performances again.
Jamie Redknapp praises unsung Leeds United hero
Speaking on Sky Sports immediately after Leeds’ well-deserved draw against Sunderland, Redknapp praised forward Noah Okafor for his role in the equaliser.
According to Redknapp, Okafor’s backheel flick “changes everything” for Leeds in the build-up to their goal, as Farke’s side worked their way out of a tight corner in a dynamic counter-attack.
Redknapp said: “I really enjoy this type of goal because everyone is involved. Some people like an overhead kick, some like bangers from the edge of the box.
“This, to me, is everything about the team because you’ve got to keep moving the ball. You play with a keeper, and it’s not like they’re not getting pressed. You can see Sunderland trying to get him into good areas.
“They’re getting pressed again. Now it’s really getting tight. Can we be brave on the ball? This little flick [from Okafor] changes everything. Now you’ve got Stach on the ball, pitch has opened up. A great pass into Aaronson with a real bit of pace.
“He loves these areas, he’s done really well in the first half. Can Dominic Calvert-Lewin get across the front post? Absolutely. Fantastic team goal, great wing play and everything about it. When you’re a manager, a player, a fan, I think we all enjoy these ones.”
- READ MORE: Dominic Calvert-Lewin makes ‘lethal’ admission as he continues his prolific Leeds United run
Noah Okafor benefited from enforced Leeds United change
Although Okafor has been a regular for Leeds this season, the injury to Lukas Nmecha has seen him operating out of position as a second striker alongside Calvert-Lewin.
However, the injury to Joe Rodon saw Farke switch to a 4-1-4-1 formation, allowing Okafor to take up his more natural position on the left-hand side.
Did Leeds deserve to take more from their draw with Sunderland? 🤔
DCL was the hero once again at the Stadium of Light
Okafor benefited from this switch, as he looked dangerous throughout the game, creating two chances according to FotMob and threatening Trai Hume on several occasions.
With Nmecha coming off the bench late in the game, Okafor will be hoping that Farke elects to stick with his five-man midfield to ensure he retains his place in the team.
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