Leeds United have been aiming to improve upon their 14th place finish last year. And the start to this season has been the perfect response to that.
Daniel Farke’s side are unbeaten in their first five games in the league and sit in fifth place during the international break.
A big part of the team’s success is individual performances; some players have increased their level from last year. The new arrivals have also shown their quality in just a few games.
When Leeds were promoted last year, a lot of players lost their place in the team that survived relegation.
And the start to this season has slowly seen some players lose their spot in the first team to the new summer signings. Tarik Muharemovic has been immense since his first game for the club.
The Leeds United new boy has turned many heads to start the season, and was even named in BBC Sport’s Premier League Team of the Week.
Leeds United star provides brilliant response to Daniel Farke decision
Jaka Bijol. Credit: IMAGO
Nico Elvedi has also proved that he is also a quality addition. He was initially brought in as a replacement for Sebastiaan Bornauw, but the Swiss international has claimed his spot in the starting lineup.
This has come at the expense of Jaka Bijol, who had a fantastic first season in England.
Last year, it took a while for the Slovenian to adapt but he formed part of a solid back three that helped the team avoid relegation. Elvedi has taken his place, with Bijol having started just two games in the last six matches in all competitions.
The centre back started Saturday’s Nations League game against Scotland and earned Slovenia a precious point.
Bijol made 14 defensive contributions including eight clearances, three blocks, two interceptions and a last man tackle. His side earned a precious point at home to begin their league campaign.
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Jaka Bijol can win his spot back in the team
Daniel Farke did explain that he is happy to have two very good defenders in his squad.
The Leeds boss mentioned that the only reason he is playing Elvedi is because he wants some certain qualities in the recent run of games.
That is not to say Bijol has lost his place in the side, but two starts in the last six is concerning. He can still win his place back in the team, given that on his day he is easily the second best defender at the club behind Joe Rodon.
Saturday’s performance against Scotland would have no doubt shown Farke and the technical team what Bijol can deliver.
