Leeds United lost their last game ahead of the international break this week. It was the first time this season that they had suffered a defeat at Elland Road.
But the Whites had chances to get a result from the game, and even in the second half, they could have taken the lead. Mohammed Kudus’ strike in the 57th minute was enough to seal all three points for Thomas Frank’s side.
Leeds are in 15th place now, with eight points from seven league games this season.
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Graham Smyth criticizes Leeds United defender
Pascal Struijk Credit: Imago
Both goals on the day have angered some Leeds fans, with some claiming Karl Darlow was at fault. But for Mathys Tel’s opener, Graham Smyth thinks a huge part of the blame should be on Pascal Struijk. The journalist thinks the Dutch defender’s recovery pace is a clear weakness in his game.
“I just feel like he couldn’t do enough to stop it,” Smyth said on the Inside Elland Road podcast.
“Sometimes with Struijk, I get a little bit concerned about balls that go in behind him and the time it takes him to turn and get back.
“You are up against very quick players in the Premier League, so it’s a very harsh environment that we’re judging him in.
“But if you want to be a Premier League player, you have to be able to deal with that.”
“It was a great strike, so I would absolve Karl Darlow of any sense of blame, particularly because it takes a nick off the defender, which changes the flight of the ball,” Smyth continued.
“It’s just Premier League quality, they can take the ball away from you, and then they can take the game away from you in the blink of an eye.
“But Struijk did play a part in it.”
Could be time for Jaka Bijol in the team
Joe Rodon has rightfully earned all the plaudits for his performances at the heart of defence this season. And so if Struijk fails to step up, Daniel Farke could turn to Jaka Bijol. The Slovenian came in as a highly rated defender from Serie A but has barely played this season.
Any slip ups from the first choice defenders could see the £15million man win a place back in the lineup.
