It is difficult to find a player that struggled on Tuesday night as Leeds United produced one of their best results of the season to see off the challenge of top-six contender Middlesbrough.
Michael Carrick’s side had already beaten Leeds at Elland Road this season and that will have been in the back of some minds going into Tuesday night’s clash, despite Daniel Farke’s stunning record against Boro.
But, Leeds were excellent as Farke’s men secured a 12th Championship win of the season to return to the top of the table ahead of Sheffield United’s trip to Millwall on Wednesday night, securing a 3-1 victory.
Goals from Wilfried Gnonto, Dan James and Brenden Aaronson proved to be enough to secure all three points. But it was a collective performance, with most Leeds players enjoying a good game last night.
Neil Redfearn impressed by ‘superb’ Leeds star’s work off the ball
With Ethan Ampadu back from his long-term knee injury, there is pressure on Joe Rothwell in the middle of the park when it comes to retaining his starting spot. Indeed, when Ampadu is fully fit, he will return.
Ampadu came off the bench last night and is a step closer to making a full return, which is likely to be in the place of Rothwell. However, Stuart Dallas thinks Rothwell is set to give Farke a big “headache”.
He certainly will, judging by his performance on Tuesday night. Neil Redfearn told BBC Radio Leeds that he was not only impressed by Rothwell’s work on the ball, but also his efforts not in possession.
Can Leeds United sign Joe Rothwell on a permanent basis?
It will be interesting to see what Leeds want to do with Rothwell. This is a midfielder that has starred for Leeds over the last couple of months, with Farke saying Rothwell has proved the Leeds doubters wrong.
Graeme Bailey has told LeedsUnited.News that signing Rothwell will depend on Leeds being promoted. But, it remains to be seen if Leeds will actually want to do a deal, given Rothwell turns 30 next month.
Farke may feel his midfield experience and ability to dictate the tempo might be a good asset if Leeds do gain promotion. If Leeds fail to go up, signing Rothwell permanently is a no-brainer next summer.
But if Leeds do find themselves achieving promotion, should they move for Rothwell beyond his loan? It is unclear how much Bournemouth would want, given he has 18 months left on his £30k-a-week deal.
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