Leeds United claimed a huge win on Monday night, coming from behind to beat Sunderland 2-1 at Elland Road in a game that may well prove pivotal in the promotion race.
Leeds United returned to the top of the Championship table after their win at Elland Road on Monday.
Over the weekend, Sheffield United had leapfrogged Leeds after the Blades beat Luton Town. It piled pressure on the Whites ahead of their Monday showdown with 4th place Sunderland, who went into half-time a goal in front.
Wilson Isidor scored for the visitors and threatened to derail Leeds’ title push. But in brilliant fashion, the Whites came from behind, and Daniel Farke’s changes were to thank.
Joe Rothwell and Pascal Struijk both came off the bench. Rothwell went on to provide both assists as Struijk netted a brace.
Daniel Farke predicted Leeds United’s set play goals vs Sunderland
Leeds found it hard to break through a very stubborn Sunderland side on the night. The Black Cats defended relatively well until Struijk’s first goal on 78 minutes, as Leeds relied on a relatively unfamiliar route to goal via set plays.
Rothwell’s delivery was markedly improved on that of Ilia Gruev who had a poor game for Leeds United. Rothwell’s pinpoint crossing found the head of Struijk twice, and Rothwell revealed after the game that Farke predicted exactly what would happen.
Speaking on LUTV, Rothwell said: “Just before me and Pasc came on, he did say were going to score a set play. So that’s nice for that to come off.”
Possible Joe Rothwell price tag mooted
Rothwell is currently set to return to Bournemouth in the summer. But speaking to Leeds United News recently, transfer expert Graeme Bailey revealed that there’s inklings of a permanent swoop being made in the summer
Bournemouth previously paid £7.5million for Rothwell and the Cherries would want that same amount back to part ways in the summer.
Bailey said of a possible Leeds move for Rothwell in the summer: “They are open to the idea. What I got back from Bournemouth, (is around) that ball-park but possibly even less would get him.
“There is an interest there but both clubs will talk at the end of the season, nothing has happened yet.”
First and foremost, Leeds have to push on and seal their promotion with 15 games left now. Then discussions can take place over Rothwell who certainly showed why Leeds would want to sign him on Monday.
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