Leeds United could not have ended their last home game of the season on a better note than they did on Sunday. The win over Burnley over a week ago already put the fans in a great mood.
But nothing was guaranteed, as the Whites still had to beat Brighton on the day. Fabian Hurzeler’s men were motivated to win, considering they were still fighting to clinch a place in Europe.
The Seagulls had lost just one game on the road, winning four of their last six games away from home. Leeds were also on a great run, having gone unbeaten since their return from the international break.
Georginio Rutter makes feelings clear on Leeds United return
Leeds United began the game on the back foot, as Brighton dominated the first half and created the better chances. However, Karl Darlow kept them in the game, denying the visitors on multiple occasions.
Daniel Farke’s men went into half-time without conceding. The second half was a marginal improvement by the home side, but they were under serious pressure as Brighton created two big chances but failed to score.
Leeds managed to hold on for the 90 minutes, and found the breakthrough in added time. Dominic Calvert-Lewin pounced on a poor back pass and slipped the ball past the goalkeeper to seal the three points for his team.
Georginio Rutter was named on the bench on his return to Elland Road on Sunday. Before the game, Fabian Hurzeler revealed that the forward was ‘not happy’ with his playing time in the team.
However, on Sunday, the Frenchman was clearly seen in great spirits on his return to his former club. He was seen smiling on the touchline as Leeds United fans cheered him on.
After the game, Rutter took a quick lap around Elland Road, taking in applause from the home crowd.
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Fans never forget
Many people outside Leeds United would be surprised on how warmly an opposition player was received at Elland Road. But Georginio Rutter is a completely different case.
When he arrived with a big price tag years ago, he struggled. But later he improved immensely and became one of the best players in the team and was a consistent fan favourite.
Brighton triggered his release clause and signed him, cutting his time in West Yorkshire short. During Rutter’s time at Leeds, he always had good things to say about the club, and never spoke bad of them after his departure.
Fans remember him fondly, and will give him a warm welcome, unlike other players who have ruined their relationship with the fanbase over the years.
