25-year-old should be axed: Three things learned about Leeds in win v Brighton
COMMENT By Dominic Toner
Football Insider analyses three talking points from Leeds’ 2-0 victory against Brighton in the Championship on Saturday.
Cooper should be dropped
Leeds defender Liam Cooper was a surprise inclusion in the starting line-up against Brighton and didn’t do enough to cement his position. The 25-year-old should be axed from the side and replaced by team-mate Pontus Jansson. Cooper was responsible for nearly gifting Brighton an opening goal, when his deflection forced a great save out of Robert Green. The centre-back was also not very comfortable in possession and sent a number of long balls straight to the opposition. Cooper remains a good option to have in the Leeds squad, but regular Jansson remains the better player.
Vieira impresses again
Leeds really do have a future star on their hands in midfielder Ronaldo Vieira. The 18-year-old was outstanding against a very good Brighton side and dominated the centre of the park. He showcased the many sides to his game and was too much for the opposition to handle. The combative was phenomenal at breaking up play for his side, while also showing maturity beyond his years in possession. He has been given the licence to get about the pitch, with his midfield partner Liam Bridcutt offering the defensive cover. The Whites will be keen to get promoted this season as Vieira is certainly a player that looks destined for the Premier League.
Wood for player award
Leeds forward Chris Wood has surely got to be in the run-in for the Championship player of the season. The 25-year-old once again proved to be the difference for this side and is the main driving force behind the club’s push for promotion. The striker scored twice in the victory over Brighton and netted the first goal of the game with a perfectly weighted header, before calmly dispatching a late penalty. He has been one of the standout players in the league this season and now has an astonishing 27 goals this campaign across all competitions.
In other Leeds news, Andy Ritchie believes it’s too soon to say whether the club’s player is ready for the Premier League.
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