Ethan Ampadu's Leeds importance underlined in stats vs Bournemouth, contract situation must be addressed
Ethan Ampadu was in fine form for Leeds United on Wednesday night as they dramatically drew 2-2 with Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium.
After Eli Junior Kroupi's opening goal had been cancelled out by James Hill's own goal, the Cherries looked to have secured the three points with Rayan's late finish.
But in the seventh minute of additional time, Sean Longstaff volleyed in a brilliant equaliser that has extended Leeds' unbeaten run to seven games across all competitions.
Both of the visitors' goals came off the back of Ampadu's long throws into the box, with the midfielder's important on full display.
Leeds transfer chiefs reportedly plan to offer the captain a new contract this summer, and some urgency is required.
Ethan Ampadu impresses vs Bournemouth
Football Insider exclusively revealed in March that Leeds want Ampadu to sign a new contract, with a long-term deal set to be discussed in the coming weeks.
The 25-year-old will have just one year remaining on his current terms this summer, with interest likely to arrive from elsewhere.
| Ethan Ampadu | Stats vs Bournemouth (A) |
| Minutes played | 90 |
| Accurate passes | 33/39 |
| Chances created | 1 |
| Tackles | 4 |
| Blocks | 1 |
| Interceptions | 1 |
| Duels won | 8/12 |
| Was fouled | 3 |
Ampadu has been largely ever-present for the Whites this season, appearing in 31 of 34 Premier League games played.
He was impressive again on Wednesday, providing a strong and energetic presence in the middle of the park.
The midfielder created a chance and completed seven passes into the final third, but it was his defensive work that stood out.
Ampadu made four tackles, five clearances, five recoveries and won the majority of his duels, only giving away one foul throughout the contest.
While Leeds will not yet be concerned about the Wales international's future, it is of utmost importance that a new deal is agreed in the coming weeks.
Ampadu eyes Wembley meeting with former club
Ampadu came through the ranks at Exeter City before he was spotted and signed by Chelsea in 2017.
The midfielder would ultimately spend six years there waiting for a chance, making only 12 senior appearances before his 2023 exit.
On Sunday, Ampadu and Leeds will hope to show the Blues what they missed out on when they meet at Wembley Stadium for the FA Cup semi-final.
Chelsea will go into the game without a manager, having sacked Liam Rosenior on Wednesday following a run of five consecutive Premier League defeats.