Three reasons why Leeds must risk 26-year-old against Brighton
COMMENT By Will Butcher
A woeful start to the Championship campaign had seen bookmakers shorten odds on both a Leeds relegation and Garry Monk’s time in charge at Elland Road.
However, Leeds have turned their season around. Now in fourth position, the Yorkshire giants have the chance to go third with three points against Brighton.
The likes of Chris Wood, Pontus Jansson and Charlie Taylor have taken the plaudits, but the presence of midfield shield Eunan O’Kane has made it all possible.
Here are three reasons why Monk must risk O’Kane against Brighton, after he missed the 2-0 win against Aston Villa with a groin problem:
Experience in the middle
With captain Liam Bridcutt still nursing the broken foot that he suffered back in September, O’Kane is seen as Monk’s senior midfield man at 26.
Ronaldo Vieira and Kalvin Phillips are both under the age of 22, and lack the experience that will be key when they go up against the likes of Dale Stephens and Steve Sidwell in the Seagulls midfield.
O’Kane’s return to the Leeds side should be risked, as they aim to remain hard to beat away from home.
Defensive stability
Both Phillips and Vieira are known for their ability to join the likes of Chris Wood, Kemar Roofe and Souleymane Doukara in attack to increase their threat in the final third.
However, away from home, Leeds must look more resolute at the back and the inclusion of five-time Ireland international O’Kane will provide that cover.
Sitting in front of the back four, O’Kane can track runs from Brighton’s midfield as well as being given space to keep possession.
Leeds record with O’Kane
Overall, O’Kane provides Leeds with a better outlook. Making 12 Championship appearances this season, the former Bournemouth star has lost just three times in a Leeds shirt.
His experience in the Premier League has seen him star in Garry Monk’s midfield, and will be vital as Leeds look to go third with all three points.
With Brighton unbeaten in 11 Championship games, Leeds must be at their best to keep Chris Hughton’s side at bay and O’Kane will be crucial to achieving that.
In other Leeds news, this League One playmaker is on Monk’s radar.