Jesse Marsch has told his Leeds press conference – as per the club’s YouTube – that he shares a “no-fear” quality with Aston Villa boss Steven Gerrard, despite being “nowhere” near the Liverpool legend’s ability as a player.
Leeds take on Aston Villa in what will be Marsch’s second game as manager, having suffered an unlucky 1-0 defeat to Leicester on Saturday despite a brace performance at the King Power. Thursday is Marsch’s home debut.
Leeds come into the match with Patrick Bamford set to play a part, albeit from the bench. Liam Cooper, Kalvin Phillips, Leo Hjelde and Tyler Roberts will be missing from the match – a game which Leeds drew 3-3 last time out.
Asked about Gerrard and reminded that their paths crossed in American during Gerrard’s stint at LA Galaxy – and Marsch’s time at NYRB – he says the manager shows no fear and is imposing his player qualities as a boss.
“When he was at Liverpool, he was a player I admired – his passion, his will,” Marsch told Wednesday afternoon’s press conference. For a manager like him, he is trying to use those qualities to impose on his team.
“They’ve responded to him well, despite not every result being what they want. I was nowhere near the quality of Gerrard, but tried to play with no fear,” Marsch continued, with the presser aired on Leeds’ YouTube.
Marsch on Gerrard: Leeds boss sounds clued up, can he secure win?
Villa come into the match after two successive wins over Brighton and Southampton, having suffered two straight 1-0 losses to Watford and Newcastle. Villa sit in 11th place in the table, 10 points above Leeds.
He says that he expects Villa to play with a diamond, with Philippe Coutinho sitting behind Ollie Watkins and Danny Ings. Marsch’s side were much-improved against Leicester and the confidence and hope is re-installed.
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