Leeds United’s positive momentum came to a halt on Saturday as they were held to a scoreless draw against Bristol City at Ashton Gate Stadium. One player that didn’t help the attack was Manor Solomon, and one pundit wonders if it’s time to end this experiment.
After back-to-back wins following the FIFA international break—a 2-0 victory over Sheffield United and a 2-1 win against Watford at Elland Road—Daniel Farke’s side entered the match looking to build on their success against mid-table Bristol City.
In the first half, Leeds United showed more aggression, taking eight shots compared to Bristol City’s three, but the score was still 0-0 at halftime.
In the second half, Leeds United continued pushing forward, firing nine shots while Bristol City managed just one. Despite their dominance in chances, neither team could find the back of the net.
Daniel Farke on Manor Solomon’s form
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Manager Daniel Farke brought in Solomon for 20 minutes during the scoreless draw, hoping to inject some offensive energy off the bench. Unfortunately, the Tottenham Hotspur loanee couldn’t help the Whites break the deadlock.
After the match, Farke addressed the media about Solomon’s form since the player returned from injury.
“Sometimes, like a bottle of ketchup, you shake it, and you want it too much, and all of a sudden, it happens,” Farke said. “When he first came he played with so much confidence, rhythm and so much confidence then the injury stopped him from going on international duty and he has to do his rehab.
“Such a proud player to play for his national team, it was a sucker punch for him. He worked so hard to come back and the feeling is of course he can’t be there with 100 percent, he needs a bit of time.
“He works so hard in training and he always adds some additional stuff in training and in the game. He wants it so much. So sometimes you want him to relax a bit. Play a bit less complicated and it will come. We’re fully convinced of his quality.
“Out of good intention he forces it a bit too much, you don’t have to prove what a good player you are, do what you’ve done your whole career and your quality will shine. I’m pretty sure it will happen soon. Keep in mind a bottle of ketchup.”
Should Leeds United end the Manor Solomon loan agreement?
BBC journalist Jonny Buchan has suggested that Leeds United may consider sending Manor Solomon back to Tottenham in January following a disappointing start to his loan spell.
“You wonder with Solomon whether he’s going to be able to get that time, and then you question do you keep him? Or do you send him back?” Buchan said on the latest Don’t Go To Bed Just Yet podcast.
“Then use that spot, I’m not saying they’re on the limit of their loans, they’re not, but do you use that pot that you’ve used money-wise to get someone else who can maybe have a bigger impact?”
