Pascal Struijk was excellent against Aston Villa on Wednesday despite Leeds United conceding three goals against Steven Gerrard’s side. His stats prove that in the absence of Liam Cooper, he has made a case to start regularly.
Struijk, 22, clocked up his third straight Premier League appearance after a hip injury which kept him sidelined for six consecutive league games. He came up against Ollie Watkins, and a rejuvenated Philippe Coutinho.
Both sides were excellent in attack but shaky in defence – but Struijk had little to do that. Indeed, it was Villa’s Coutinho that pulled the strings and there was little Leeds could do to stop that – with Jacob Ramsey profiting.
The Villa ace netted twice thanks to two assists from Coutinho, who also got one – after a neat low cross from Matty Cash. Had it not been for Struijk, Leeds might have conceded a lot more chances – and goals.
Struijk stats: Leeds star puts case to Bielsa to start, with Villa outing
The likelihood is that when captain Liam Cooper returns, he will come back into the side – Bielsa is a big admirer of the club’s skipper. That is, despite Leeds also boasting Robin Koch and Diego Llorente as centre-back options.
WhoScored report that Struijk made three interceptions, second only to Luke Ayling. He produced five clearances, more than anyone else. Four of six long balls were accurate, and he only misplaced eight of his 76 passes.
With Cooper sidelined, Struijk has the chance to show why he deserves to start and despite the concession of three goals on Wednesday – he certainly sent a message to Bielsa about starting outright, when everyone is fit.
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