Neil Redfearn believes a lot of Ethan Ampadu’s work for Leeds United goes unnoticed.
Ampadu continued his record of playing every minute of every match for Leeds since his arrival from Chelsea in the summer in the 3-2 victory over Middlesbrough today.
The 23-year-old was not at his best in midweek against Swansea City but certainly returned somewhere close to that against Boro, with an accomplished midfield display.
And speaking on BBC Radio Leeds after the game, Redfearn says the work Ampadu does in midfield for Leeds is so underrated and helps protect those around him.
Boro caused Leeds problems throughout the 90 minutes at Elland Road, but Ampadu was often in the right place at the right time to mop up the danger.
Ampadu back to his best for Leeds
Redfearn also believes that Ampadu gives excellent protection to the two centre-backs behind him, while also providing that link between the defence and midfield.
“Ampadu just in front of them, I think he goes unnoticed and a lot of his stuff is really good. He protects the pass into the front and how he protects space. In possession he’ll drop in between and connect the passes.”
Liam Cooper said in pre-season that Ampadu was able to make those around him look better, and that was certainly evident again today.
Ampadu has been one of Leeds’ players of the season so far and while the attackers often grab the headlines due to their goals, Redfearn has spotted so much of the dirty work he gets through.
Leeds face a tough run of fixtures in the month of December and will need him to be at his best if they are to return with a strong amount of points.
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