Jesse Marsch has been speaking in his pre-match press conference ahead of the Premier League clash between Leeds and Manchester City on Saturday.
The American was quizzed on why Raphinha took throw-ins during the 0-0 draw against Crystal Palace, and the answer has now been made clear.
What’s the story?
Well, the Leeds supporters are used to seeing the Brazilian get the ball into the box, but with his feet rather than his hands.
It was unusual to see Raphinha taking throw-ins, but Marsch has explained the logic behind his decision to appoint the South American in that role.
As quoted by Leeds Live, the 48-year-old said: “Had a contest in training. All said no, but my money was on Raph and he did. Dangerous and will use it more in the future. No throw-in coach like Liverpool, but we will try to be dangerous.”
If Raphinha is the best thrower at Elland Road, then we see no reason why he shouldn’t be the one to lob the ball into the box.
Of course, as Marsch states, it’s not exactly as detailed as some approaches – for example, Liverpool specifically hired a throw-in coach to help them achieve marginal gains.
Nevertheless, if it creates a goalscoring opportunity, then we’re all for it.
Leeds using Raphinha in a clever way
Of course, some fans might feel that Marsch could have been more in-depth than just having a throwing contest at Thorp Arch.
However, we’re actually impressed by the American’s thinking here.
It shows that Marsch is not only considering a basic tactical approach, but he’s also looking to achieve marginal gains by focusing on small details.
To put it simply, if Leeds avoid relegation thanks to a goal caused by Raphinha launching a ball into the box, Marsch will look like a genius.
Patrick Bamford has already praised the former RB Leipzig boss for his coaching ability, and clearly, Marsch is a bright thinker.
In an age where video analysis and sports science are pivotal in football, it’s good to see Leeds have someone ready to attune himself with modern ideas and outside-of-the-box thinking.
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