Anita conceded a penalty in Leeds’ 3-1 loss to Preston on Tuesday evening.
Former Leeds United striker Bobby Davison has criticised Whites defender Vurnon Anita when speaking to LUTV as the versatile defender gave away a penalty in the 3-1 loss to Preston North End on Tuesday night.
Leeds had taken the lead in the 13th minute as Kalvin Phillips picked up a loose ball from a corner before firing an excellent low cross along the six-yard box, where Kemar Roofe obliged to finish with ease.
But that was about as good as it got for Leeds, as Preston came roaring out of the blocks in the second half. Holland international Anita was at fault for the Lilywhites’ equaliser, conceding a penalty for a foul on Billy Bodin.
The former Newcastle United utility man got caught one-on-one and Davison, who played for Leeds for five years between 1987 and 1992, believes Anita made a mistake in allowing Bodin to enter the box.
“He’s really close to the boy [Bodin]”, Davison said. “If he’s going to make a tackle, I suggest he’s got to make it outside the box. He doesn’t know which way he’s going to go.
“If you seem him there, he’s flat-footed. He’s square on with the Preston player and he can go either way. Anita’s off balance and he gives away a penalty.”
Anita, 29, has been in and out of the Leeds side this season, making 22 appearances in all competitions and is expected to be used more often in the remaining Championship fixtures.
That is due to Gaetano Berardi’s suspension, as well as Luke Ayling’s long-term injury. Despite his mistake, Anita could start against Aston Villa on the weekend.
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