Leeds United may have been denied a win at Sunderland by a late Illan Meslier error but there were still plenty of positives to take.
Daniel Farke‘s side were literally seconds away from a crucial three points away at the Championship league leaders but for a freak moment that probably won’t ever happen again in Meslier‘s career.
With the squad hampered by injuries and on the back of a short turnaround from Tuesday night’s trip to Norwich City, Leeds produced a real gutsy performance at the Stadium of Light.
Wilfried Gnonto was once again Leeds’ star man on the night, providing both assists and alleviating so much pressure with his dribbling and ability to draw in challenges.
Joe Rodon and Pascal Struijk were both also absolutely colossal at the back in the second half, and very much deserved to be on a winning side.
Joe Rothwell proves his worth to Leeds at Sunderland
One of the biggest concerns for Leeds heading into the game at Sunderland on the back of this week was the midfield.
Adrian Clarke described losing both Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev as a ‘seismic blow’ to Leeds’ promotion chances, but Ao Tanaka and Joe Rothwell may have proved otherwise.
Rothwell was one of Leeds’ first signings of the summer but had to wait until last night for his full league debut, with the game against Norwich also his first proper amount of minutes.
And based on his performance against Sunderland, Rothwell has been worth the wait. Leeds fans were critical of Gruev at Cardiff for too many backwards passes, but the same certainly cannot be said for Rothwell.
The Bournemouth loanee was always looking forward whenever he was in possession, whether that was with his passing, or carrying of the ball.
He completed three of his five attempted long passes, one of which almost setup Joel Piroe, who did very well to bring a ball down on his chest and volley towards goal.
Off the ball, the ‘special‘ Rothwell was also impressive. His three interceptions allowed Leeds to keep on the front foot in periods during the match, with the 29-year-old also winning two of his three duels.
Of course, it is going to be a lot to ask for him to play at that level, week-in, week-out until Ampadu is back. However, he certainly showed he will be a brilliant option for Leeds this season.
- READ MORE: Jermaine Beckford makes claim about Illan Meslier at Leeds after his mistake against Sunderland
What Farke said about Leeds’ midfield after Sunderland draw
Speaking to Leeds Live post-match, Farke said he had to change Leeds’ style of play at Sunderland due to the injuries to Gruev and Ampadu.
Though describing Leeds’ new midfield partnership as two of the best passers in the league, Farke did admit they will find it more difficult out of possession with them both in there.
He said: “Every other opponent has lost here. Today had a different centre of our game. Difficult for our lads. Always had Ampadu and Gruev as defensive midfielders in there at winning the ball back.
“We played with two ballers there today. Two of the best midfielders in the league with passing. Against the ball it can be challenging with them.
“Could not go for quick transition because we don’t have the defensive machines to win the ball back. Had to change the rhythm of our game. After the first eight minutes we took control.”
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