The centre-back is currently on loan with Leeds and has quickly established himself as a key man.
Leeds United’s Kyle Bartley in action with QPR’s Sebastien Polter
Kyle Bartley has explained to BBC Radio Leeds that Leeds United boss Garry Monk has turned to him to help improve the players around him.
Bartley is currently enjoying a loan spell at Elland Road, and has arguably already endeared himself to United supporters with a string of fine performances that have made the Whites much more difficult to beat this season.
Leeds’ Hadi Sacko with Kyle Bartley
One of his most impressive attributes has been his leadership, and the 25-year-old suggested that Monk has specifically asked him to try and inspire his teammates.
“I always try and be the leader out there whether I’ve got the armband or not,” he told BBC Radio Leeds.
Leeds United manager Garry Monk
“I focus on my game, but then I try and improve the player around me. I think that’s massively important. The manager’s asked that of me, that was one of his biggest attributes as a player.
“I think I can improve on that as well and keep on improving the players around me.”
The early signs suggest that he is doing the job Monk has asked of him expertly. While defending set-pieces continues to be a problem, Leeds have been much more assured defensively than they arguably have been in any other season since they fell out of the top flight.
Bartley’s calm approach perfectly complements the much more emotional style of his centre-back partner Pontus Jansson, while the likes of Charlie Taylor and Luke Ayling will undoubtedly have plenty of confidence that if they go forward, the defence will often be strong enough to cope.
And if Bartley can continue to get the best out of those around, Leeds will surely be one of the contenders for a top six spot in the Championship this term.
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