Leeds United’s unbeaten run of 14 games came to an abrupt end when The Whites were beaten by Millwall for a second time this season, losing 2-0 in the fourth round of The FA Cup at Elland Road.
A brace from Femi Azeez saw Alex Neil do what Neil Harris managed in the Championship, and beat Leeds. It was Daniel Farke’s fifth defeat of the season in 34 games, two of which have come in the Cup.
It is fair to say that not many can come out of the 2-0 loss with their heads held high. But Farke did make 10 changes to his side, in order to keep the starting squad fresh ahead of Tuesday against Watford.
Three big winners from Leeds United’s loss to Millwall
Isaac Schmidt sends reminder to Daniel Farke
A bit of a forgotten man, Schmidt was handed only his second start for Leeds since joining the club for a fee of £4.6m from St. Gallen last summer. He’s been afforded just 25 minutes of Championship football.
But Schmidt was probably Leeds’ best player against Millwall. Excellent in possession, it was Schmidt’s gorgeous touch that almost saw Sam Chambers score in his first full start, his left-footed effort saved.
Isaac Schmidt’s stats in Leeds United defeat to Millwall:
- 90 minutes played, 7.2 FotMob rating (Leeds’ second-highest, Gnonto best with 7.3)
- 1 successful touch, 1 touch in opposition box, 0.08 XG+XA
- 90 touches, 56 successful passes, 66 attempted (85%)
- Six defensive actions, eight recoveries
- Eight duels won (best on pitch), 11 attempted
Schmidt’s pass also lead to the penalty, albeit a soft award. Schmidt was excellent in attack and defence, and it will serve as a reminder to Farke that if he is required in the final third of the season, he’s ready.
Brenden Aaronson importance highlighted in defeat
The player that gets the most criticism from fans and pundits ahead of Illan Meslier and Joel Piroe, £25k-a-week Brenden Aaronson has managed to have a hand in 10 goals – starting 29 league games in a row.
Leeds wanted a 10 in the January window to provide cover for Aaronson, but they failed to bring in a new signing. On Saturday, Wilfried Gnonto played as a 10 and while Gnonto did well, Leeds missed Aaronson.
Gnonto played more as a second striker rather than Aaronson who is excellent and picking up positions in between the lines. Stuart Dallas says Aaronson is excellent on the half-turn, and that’s what Leeds missed.
Mateo Joseph failure means Joel Piroe will lead Leeds attack
Speaking after the defeat, Farke admitted Joseph did not play well and ultimately, missed his chance to shine from the start. Joseph had scored against Cardiff and was given a start against Millwall at home.
But he struggled. While Farke said it would be difficult for any striker to come up against the likes of Jake Cooper and Japhet Tanganga, Joseph managed just 26 touches – only 10 less, nine of which were subs.
Leeds will now concentrate on the league and with 15 to go, Farke will want to play his best side. That means and as things stand, Piroe starts the remaining 15 games and Joseph will have to remain as cover.
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