Leeds United have had a positive start to the campaign, but the areas of need are obvious. Depth at striker and help at left-back.
Although the new signings have impressed thus far, new right-back, Rasmus Kristensen, has had the least success of the new faces. Entering the season, Kristensen seemed like the least likely to have difficulty acclimating himself into the Leeds fans’ hearts.
First Two Matches for Leeds United
Although Leeds have taken 4 out of a possible 6 points in the two matches, the room for improvement is evident in the backline.
Kristensen has been partially responsible for at least two of the goals conceded this season. Surprisingly, Kristensen has been outplayed and outmuscled in some crucial situations.
In the match against Wolves, Neto was able to muscle off Kristensen and get first to a loose ball. Not only did Neto win the battle, but Kristensen fell completely, leaving an odd man chance in the box for the Wolves.
Kristensen’s physical presence was a big selling point in addition to having played under Jesse Marsch. A chance off a set piece in the box was missed by Kristensen, which has brought even more attention to the defensive miscues.
It is natural to take time in getting accustomed to the Premier League, but it is even more glaring with the lack of quality on the left side currently.
Two games are not a proper workload to make a full judgment, but things will need to improve with better competition ahead as Chelsea comes to Elland Road.
In no way do I expect Kristensen to continue this quality of play, but it does leave an opening for someone like Cody Drameh to take advantage of an opportunity.
Injury news from Jesse Marsch's press conference - doubts over Bamford and Cooper, who are both on the grass but not certain to be involved v Chelsea.
— Phil Hay (@PhilHay_) August 19, 2022
Joe Gelhardt is fit.
Ayling and Firpo not ready. Marsch thinks a week or two away - "looking better and better".
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Ayling is back in Training for Leeds
Speaking of competition for Kristensen, Luke Ayling is back in training and close to being fit for matches.
Ayling is a player that brings leadership and boldness to the pitch for the Whites. Ayling will push the pace and ball forward while producing strong crosses to the box for Leeds.
It is a good spot for Ayling, who is returning from off-season surgery, to ease back into the lineup. His offense and energy would be welcome to the right side and could be the missing piece of Marsch’s system.
The return of Ayling and Junior Firpo could take this team to another level just in time for Kristensen and Pascal Striujk to take a rest and improve on the training pitch.