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Marcelo Bielsa comments on Gaetano Berardi’s return to Leeds United training
Marcelo Bielsa has told his pre-match Arsenal press conference – – that Gaetano Berardi’s return to Leeds United training has a pleasing moment, as the defender puts the final touches to his recovery from an ACL injury.
Berardi, 32, suffered the dreaded long-term knee issue against Derby County towards the end of last season after the Whites had gained promotion. The one-time Switzerland ace has since been missing, failing to make his Premier League debut.
But the ex-Sampdoria man, who signed a 12-month contract until the summer, returning to training on Monday and is expected to feature in the Under-23 side on numerous occasions before finally making his first appearance of the season.
Bielsa was asked what it was like to see Berardi – loved by Leeds fans for his terrier-like performances in the Leeds team – back on the training ground after the best part of 12 months on the sidelines. He responded by claiming it made everyone happy.
“He is a player respected by his team-mates and by ourselves. He made a big effort in these last six months to recover. It’s a very happy moment to see him working with the team. From now, he will take the necessary steps to start playing again,” Bielsa said.
TBR’s view – Contract expires in summer, where does future lie?
Berardi is out of contract this summer and if he is to earn a new deal, this time it will not be down to sentiment – which many could argue was given to him last season, when Andrea Radrizzani eventually gave him another year.
If he is to get a new deal, it will be earnt on the pitch. One thing he does have in his favour is versatility. He is the ideal player to have on the bench as he covers all defensive positions for Leeds, but he is also crucial in the dressing room.
If the £32,000-a-week defender can still offer a bit on the pitch, then he must be kept.
