Eunan O’Kane praised for recent performances.
Former Leeds United manager Neil Redfearn
Former Leeds United boss Neil Redfearn has told TV Yorkshire that he has questions over whether Liam Bridcutt will go straight back into the team when he is fit.
He attributes this to the impressive form of deadline day signing Eunan O’Kane and young midfielder Kalvin Phillips.
Bridcutt was named Leeds captain last month, just weeks after joining the club on a permanent basis from Sunderland, with the armband having to be re-assigned after Sol Bamba was released.
Liam Bridcutt Leeds United in action with Jack Payne of Huddersfield Town
He has missed the last couple of games through injury, and Redfearn believes there is no reason for head coach Garry Monk to rush him back into the Leeds XI.
Redfearn said: “O’Kane’s made a real difference, and he’s gone unnoticed, under the radar a little bit. He’s used his experience, no shortage of skill and craft in his game, and he’s been good for young Kalvin Phillips alongside him who has come to the fore in recent weeks.
“The pair of them look really good. They look a good balance. Bridcutt is going to have a job on his hands getting his shirt back now. That has got to be good, it’s healthy competition.”
Blackburn’s Martin Samuelsen and Leeds’ Eunan O’Kane in action
Leeds are 11th in the Championship table after 11 games, and signed off before the international break with a 2-1 win over Barnsley.
The Whites are in their best run of form arguably since Redfearn’s spell as boss in early 2014, before it all fell apart.
Fans are dreaming of the play-offs and promotion, and competition for places will only spur the team on to keep putting in good performances and racking up the points.
Leeds United manager Garry Monk before the match
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
