Leeds United produced a stunning comeback for the second time in two games to put one hand on the Championship title with a superb 3-1 victory at Bramall Lane on Monday night.
Last Monday, Leeds strengthened their position in the automatic promotion places with a late 2-1 win against Sunderland thanks to Pascal Struijk’s brace. Next up, a trip to second-placed Sheffield United.
Illan Meslier’s shaky first 20 minutes culminated in an own goal, and Leeds were staring down the barrel of a fourth league defeat. Leeds had created a few half-chances, but nothing that suggested a victory.
But Leeds improved in the second half and Junior Firpo nodded in an equaliser, before Ao Tanaka popped up at the back post to nod Leeds in front. Joel Piroe rounded it off with a stunning hit from 20 yards out.
Jon Newsome says Joe Rothwell made the difference
Earlier than usual, Daniel Farke – who was in the gantry serving a one-match touchline ban – made some changes. On 59 minutes, Joe Rothwell and Mateo Joseph entered the fray as Leeds tried to equalise.
Rothwell played a key part in Leeds’ comeback after his two assists against Sunderland. Co-commentating on BBC Radio Leeds, former Leeds man Jon Newsome says Rothwell made the difference on Monday.
“Joe Rothwell… the difference is there for everybody to see. Junior Firpo comes in like a salmon with a fabulous header,” Newsome said on BBC Radio Leeds after the equaliser, as per BBC Live’s coverage.
Joe Rothwell is proving to be an absolute must-buy this summer
In the summer, Rothwell’s arrival was met with mixed reviews. But Daniel Farke thinks Rothwell has proved Leeds fans wrong and the last couple of weeks have shown that even further, starring in the comebacks.
His assists against Sunderland and his influence tonight, sensational. Reports say Bournemouth want a fee of £7.5m for Rothwell, while Graeme Bailey has told LeedsUnited.News Rothwell could even be cheaper.
Judging on his showing over the last couple of weeks, even if he is only used as an impact player in the Premier League, Leeds simply have to strike a permanent deal with Bournemouth in the coming months.
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