Leeds United knew what was at stake when they were going to face Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park this weekend. Previous results meant that Daniel Farke’s side had everything to lose.
And they started the game on Sunday with a lot of positivity; being able to control the game early against the hosts. Palace were on the backfoot from most of the first half, and that pressure lead to a penalty just before halftime. Unfortunately, Dominic Calvert-Lewin could not convert from the sport and Oliver Glasner’s side were let off the hook.
Leeds United failing to capitalize came back to haunt them, as they were down to 10 men just minutes later. Gabriel Gudmundsson was shown a second yellow for a foul on Ismaila Sarr just before the first half whistle.
Graham Smyth praises Leeds United star after Crystal Palace performances
Farke’s men were able to dig in and hold on the point at full time, with the team delivering a solid performance. Crystal Palace barely troubled Karl Darlow during the second period. There were a lot of outstanding performances on Sunday, but Ethan Ampadu was arguably the best player on the pitch.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Touches | 60 |
| Successful Passes | 21/30 |
| Ground Duels Won | 7/7 |
| Aerial Duels Won | 5/7 |
| Tackles Won | 3/3 |
| Fouls Won | 3 |
| Interceptions | 2 |
| Clearances | 2 |
He marshalled the team even when they were down to 10, and he was combative in midfield almost making up for the one-man disadvantage. Graham Smyth rated the club captain 9/10 in his player ratings at the end of the game, saying Ampadu ‘showed leadership’.
‘Showed his leadership, physicality and defensive abilities. Defended the box like a man possessed in the second half.’
Whites need to tie down their captain long-term
A performance like what Ampadu had on Sunday should be enough for the 49ers to bring out the cheque book. The club captain has been one of the most consistent performers in the team all season. He has showed in every game, and whenever the team is down he lifts the players with his performances. Losing him to another club this summer would be a huge blow. Leeds United fans will also be furious if they lose their club captain who has become the face of the club in recent years.
