Jaka Bijol surely nailed on to start for Leeds United vs Burnley amid new Pascal Struijk concern

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One of the biggest surprises of Leeds United’s return to the Premier League has been Daniel Farke’s usage, or non-usage, of Jaka Bijol. The Slovenian was seen as a key signing in the summer.

Daniel Farke even described Bijol as a “marquee signing” in the last few weeks. But Bijol is yet to make his Premier League debut, after being suspended for the opener against Everton due to a Serie A ban.

That carried over, allowing Pascal Struijk the chance to showcase his talents in the Premier League. A 1-0 win and a clean sheet meant that Farke has stuck with Struijk since, even after the 5-0 defeat at Arsenal.

After a clean sheet against Newcastle however, Leeds have been unable to shut out their opponents. The Whites have conceded goals against Fulham, Wolves, Bournemouth and Tottenham, five goals in four.

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Pascal Struijk stat is alarming, the worst in Leeds’ starting XI

One thing that has been evident in recent matches is strikers getting the better of Struijk in defence. His two deflections were hardly his fault, but Mathys Tel often won physical battles with the Dutch defender.

Brenden Aaronson surprisingly wins duels more often than any of the 10 outfield players that have all started the last four Premier League games. But bottom of the list is Struijk, winning only 19 this term.

That is less than the likes of Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Noah Okafor, who have only started four times in the Premier League. Indeed, Struijk only averages a duel won every 33 minutes, far less than teammates.

Against Burnley, Daniel Farke needs to consider Jaka Bijol

It is the perfect time to bring Bijol into the starting line-up. A game that is likely to be physical, Burnley away will suit Bijol, who won the fourth-most aerial duels in Serie A with Udinese during 2024-25.

He will also get plenty of game time during the break. Bijol is one of nine senior Leeds players currently on international duty, with the defender facing Kosovo and Switzerland in 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Bijol will be more match-sharp when Leeds prepare to face Burnley than Struijk, who is still at Thorp Arch during the break. Whether Farke is brave enough to start Bijol remains to be seen over at Turf Moor.