Neil Redfearn says one Leeds player had one of his best games for the club today

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Neil Redfearn has issued his verdict on the performance of Junior Firpo as Leeds United came from behind to beat Preston North End at Elland Road.

Leeds needed a late penalty from Joel Piroe to beat Preston on Sunday. Ultimately, it was a hugely frustrating afternoon, with the visitors showing no interest in capitalising on their superb start.

Leeds had to be up for the fight, particularly in the second-half. And the rewards came late on, with Leeds being awarded a penalty after a handball. Ryan Ledson arguably did well to remain on the pitch after an awful challenge on Ilia Gruev. But thankfully, his arm made contact with the ball in stoppage-time to present Piroe with the spot-kick.

Neil Redfearn praises Junior Firpo after Leeds win

Junior Firpo started at left-back ahead of Sam Byram. And Firpo did brilliantly to set up Leeds’ equaliser six minutes into the game, finding Daniel James with an outstanding cross.

Of course, Firpo has had a mixed time at Leeds. But speaking on BBC Radio Leeds, Neil Redfearn suggested that he was really impressed by the 27-year-old’s display.

“I thought Leeds settled themselves down. Great equaliser, fantastic ball in by Firpo. I thought he played one of his better games today. Great header from the little fella at the back stick to put Leeds level,” he said.

Championship definitely plays to 27-year-old’s strengths

Firpo definitely deserves credit for the impact he has made in the final third in recent games. The full-back now has four assists in his last three appearances.

Obviously, questions will still remain over his defensive limitations. It is going to take a long time before fans completely trust the former Barcelona star when it comes to his work at the back.

But in the Championship where Leeds are able to ask so many questions of opponents, Firpo’s defensive frailties are not as problematic as they had been in the Premier League.