Leeds United player told he could play in any position under Daniel Farke after ‘reliable’ performance

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There were a number of excellent performances on Tuesday night as Leeds United secured a brilliant 3-1 win over Middlesbrough, to return to the top of the Championship.

Goals from Wilfried Gnonto, Dan James and Ao Tanaka saw The Whites cruise to all three points. Michael Carrick’s side had chances but couldn’t match Leeds on the day, scoring through a Max Wober own goal.

Leeds then, winning revenge after losing against Boro in the Carabao Cup earlier this season. Daniel Farke continued his super run of form against Middlesbrough, now winning eight of his 10 games against Boro.

Michael Bridges is getting “excited” with Leeds at the top of the Championship, at least until Sheffield United go to Millwall on Wednesday night. Plenty of players sparkled on Tuesday after the 3-1 victory.

• READ MORE: Michael Bridges was critical of one Leeds player despite his “fantastic” display

Michael Bridges in awe of Leeds United defender last night

Before an injury ruled him out of games against Blackburn and Derby, 31-year-old Sam Byram had started five of the previous six. On Tuesday, he returned from injury and replaced Jayden Bogle on the right.

Byram was in superb form, involved in the first two goals. It was his pass to free Dan Jams on the right, and then it was his tackle that saw the ball fall to Joel Piroe who in turn, fed James in the penalty area.

Speaking to LUTV after the game, Michael Bridges says Byram is reliable in any position: “Mr Reliable, doesn’t matter where you put him. The biggest question mark is injuries, similar to me in my career.

“But when he’s called upon, you know what you get from Sam. He puts his everything into all of it. He’s helped set up the first goal and the second goal. You’ll always get 100% from Sam Byram,” Bridges said.

Sam Byram’s stats for Leeds United in win against Middlesbrough

Every time Byram comes into the Leeds side, he shines. Combative, excellent in the air but surprisingly this season, contributing in the final third whether it be a scissor kick against Luton or an assist at Swansea.

Sam Byram’s stats against Middlesbrough:

• 85 minutes, 7.0 FotMob rating
• 46 touches, 32 successful passes, 34 attempted (94%)
• Two tackles, two recoveries, one block
• Two duels won, four attempted

Byram has been excellent when needed and while he is not going to start over Bogle or Firpo, he is happy just to play his part. His experience, his Leeds knowledge, his versatility – arguably, Farke’s best signing.