The Leeds United star was dropped for a crucial clash with Brighton – but Monk showed at Swansea City that he doesn’t shy away from big calls.
Fortunately, Liam Cooper’s assured performance in Leeds United’s 2-0 win against Brighton and Hove Albion somewhat stifled the speculation concerning why key man and cult hero Pontus Jansson was dropped from the starting line-up.
A virtual ever-present until that crucial game at Elland Road a fortnight ago, the Swede was conspicuous by his absence. And we still have no clear reason why Jansson did not appear. All we know is that we can rule out an injury.
Yet, rather than assuming this development hints at problems behind the scenes, Leeds supporters should instead be glad to know that they have a manager who is not afraid to make big decisions. Let’s not forget that Brighton are on track for automatic promotion; Leeds could hardly have welcomed a tougher opponent to Elland Road and facing them without their best defender was undoubtedly a risk.
However, Monk has history when it comes to stamping his authority on the squad when required. Gylfi Sigurdsson may have been Swansea City’s talisman for around half a decade but, when underperforming in the second half of the 2014/15 season, Monk did not think twice about dropping him to the bench.
In the end, the Icelandic playmaker returned stronger and more consistent.
And Jonjo Shelvey, despite his unquestioned talent, also lost his place in the Swans side after falling on the wrong side of his manager. The current Newcastle United metronome was ordered to ‘wise up’ by Monk after costing his side with a series of suspensions, as reported by the BBC.
And while no Leeds supporters will want to see Jansson removed from the side on a long-term basis, it’s clear that Monk will put the needs of the side before any individual – no matter how crucial he is to the side.
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