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Bielsa names Leeds’ best player in second-half vs Manchester United
Marcelo Bielsa has named Adam Forshaw as the best player on the pitch during the second-half of Leeds United’s clash with Manchester United as he discussed the defensive midfield position in his side – .
Forshaw was, unsurprisingly, recalled to the Leeds side for Sunday. It previously seemed to be a huge error to leave him out of the starting lineup the previous week at Everton.
He has been a revelation since his return from two years on the sidelines earlier this season. And for many, he has come closer than anyone to filling the void that Kalvin Phillips has left while out with injury.
Nevertheless, Bielsa initially asked Forshaw to play slightly further forward against Ralf Rangnick’s men. Instead, it was Robin Koch who sat in front of the back four.
Koch’s first-half substitution would prompt many to push Forshaw back. Bielsa however, decided to bring Junior Firpo on and move Pascal Struijk forward.
It was only when Diego Llorente came off at the break that Forshaw was deployed in the holding role for Leeds. And he looked a class act despite a disappointing end to the game for the Whites.
Jonathan Woodgate suggested that he was the star of the show after the break. And Bielsa clearly had a similar view as he commented on the side’s defensive midfield options ahead of Wednesday’s clash with Liverpool.
“I wanted to explain in the game against Manchester we did not have Phillips, Koch or Pascal,” he said, . “Three players who take on the role of DM to solidify them. We don’t resolve that with bringing signings in.
“If not, we would have four players for that position. Imagine being able to count on all three for that position. It’s a privilege. At the same time, occasionally situations like this are presented. Strangely, the fourth player in that role is the best player of the team in the second half: Forshaw.”
Leeds second-half lineup must start against Liverpool as Bielsa lauds Forshaw
Leeds looked to be on another level in the second-half against Manchester United. They were certainly a lot more dangerous with Raphinha and Joe Gelhardt on the pitch.
In fact, for many Leeds fans, that lineup that started the second-half would be the team they would want against Liverpool on Wednesday.
And part of that would see Forshaw used in front of the back four. Koch is absent for the game. And Struijk will surely start at centre-back, either alongside Luke Ayling or Llorente.
It is going to be a huge ask of Forshaw with Liverpool in stunning form. But right now, he certainly looks to be the best man for the job.