Junior Firpo responds to ‘big’ Ilia Gruev message after Leeds survive Middlesbrough
Junior Firpo has responded to Leeds teammate Ilia Gruev on social media after a win over Middlesbrough.
Following three draws on the bounce, the Whites’ promotion dream seemed to be slipping from their grasp for the second season in a row.
Against Middlesbrough, Dan James helped Leeds get back to winning ways with a fine strike just two minutes in, giving the title-hopefuls all three points.
The win was all the more vital as both Burnley and Sheffield United dropped points, seeing the Whites back to the top of the table.
However, the match was not without its controversies, with Ao Tanaka seeing his goal unfairly ruled offside, before Patrick Bamford also suffered the same fate as his teammate.
Junior Firpo praises Ilia Gruev after Leeds win
Following the win over Middlesbrough, Gruev posted an image of himself celebrating the win to Instagram, captioned: “That’s what we call *BIG POINTS*! COME ON Leeds United !!!!”
Firpo then responded to the Bulgarian, simply saying: “Baller”, with a fire emoji.
The win now gives the Whites a two-point cushion over third-placed Sheffield United, with just five games remaining.
Daniel Farke bounces back after Leeds sack calls
Football Insider Verdict
Following a brief flutter, Leeds are back on track and just as importantly, Daniel Farke is back on track.
The likeable German has the Whites playing some beautiful football this season, scoring an astonishing 80 goals in 41 games.
| 2024/25 Championship table | Games played | Goal difference | Points |
| 1. Leeds | 41 | +52 | 85 |
| 2. Burnley | 41 | +43 | 85 |
| 3 Sheffield United | 41 | +25 | 83 |
However, Farke is not just trying to keep Leeds fans happy with aims of promotion, as the 49ers Enterprises’ takeover of Rangers could be in jeopardy if the German fails to take his side up to the Premier League.
What’s more, Leeds’ run-in is kind, with three of their next five games at Elland Road, and only Bristol City sitting anywhere near the playoff places.
Whilst the drop in form will have been a concern, Leeds are heading into the final five games of the season in pole position and unbeaten in their last five games.