Leeds United boss Marcelo Bielsa has praised Ian Poveda’s performance on his debut against Cardiff City yesterday in Leeds Live.
Poveda joined Leeds in January from Manchester City, but was kept in reserve upon signing.
It seems that the 20-year-old youngster has benefitted more from the break in the season than most though, as it has allowed him more time to get up to speed.
Poveda was introduced from the bench yesterday, as Leeds searched for a breakthrough in Wales.
And although the Whites were unable to turn the game around, Poveda’s display still earned him credit from Bielsa.
“The minute he play, even if he didn’t imbalance his side, he made some contribution to the play,” Bielsa said.
“If you consider the kind of match we were playing, with the opponent too close to their own box, it’s more difficult to attack in those conditions, but he has some good capacity to adapt himself to reduced spaces.
“He is an agile player.”
Poveda could now have an important role to play over the rest of the season, as Leeds look to get back to winning ways.
The Whites’ defeat has caused some concern, but Bielsa’s side are still in a very strong position in the Championship table.
Leeds are next in action on Saturday, when they take on Fulham.
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