Javi Gracia has watched his Leeds United side pick up four Premier League points from a possible nine since taking over but Paul Robinson has not been impressed – criticising the Spanish gaffer for team selection on Sky Sports News.
Gracia, 52, secured a crucial 1-0 win over Southampton in his first game in charge. But since, defeat to Fulham in the FA Cup has been followed by a narrow loss to Chelsea, and then a decent draw against high-flying Brighton on Saturday.
Patrick Bamford and Jack Harrison got the goals as Leeds pegged Brighton back twice to nab a crucial point. But for Leeds, results went against them – as Bournemouth and Everton won, while Southampton held Manchester United.
So, more importance is now placed on Saturday’s trip to Wolves. A game which Jesse Marsch secured three points last season, coming back to win 3-2. Robinson has criticised Gracia for his team selection since arriving at Elland Road.
“The jury is out, it’s a puzzle that is not solved. He was the best of what was there available. I was surprised. Some of his team selections have been questionable, leaving McKennie out, continually playing Aaronson and leaving Gnonto out.”
Paul Robinson not impressed with Leeds gaffer Javi Gracia for selections
On Saturday, Gracia left both Weston McKennie and Willy Gnonto on the bench. Gnonto failed to return to the starting XI after missing out against Chelsea. But, he came off the bench and really impressed. Surely, he starts at Wolves.
Leeds will play on the counter against Julen Lopetegui’s side on Saturday and having pace in attack is important. So, starting Gnonto is a must for Leeds. Brenden Aaronson has shown some decent touches, but remains very lightweight.
So, it might be that Gracia brings in Gnonto on the left and plays Harrison in the middle behind either Bamford or the returning Rodrigo. Plenty of decisions to be made and Gracia has got to get it right with games now running out.
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