Leeds United ace Pontus Jansson gives insight into “biggest difference” in training under Marcelo Bielsa

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The Whites defender spoke about Bielsa’s training methods and how they have transformed the team into a Championship title contender.

Leeds United defender Pontus Jansson has given an insight into Marcelo Bielsa’s training methods and how they have helped transform the team into a Championship title contender.

Last season, the Whites finished 13th in the second tier on 60 points, 15 adrift of the playoffs and a massive 30 behind second-placed Cardiff City.

Since Bielsa came to Elland Road in the summer, however, Leeds have become one of the division’s top teams, currently sitting at the summit despite some injury problems.

The Argentine has widely been credited as having transformed the team off the pitch as well as on it and as such has been recognised with Manager of the Month wins and nominations.

Jansson initially arrived on loan at Leeds in the summer of 2016, before signing permanently a year later, and has worked under several managers at Elland Road en route to 101 appearances (Transfermarkt).

Speaking to Sky Sports News, the 27-year-old spoke out on some of the aspects of Bielsa’s training regime, including what he feels is the biggest difference since his earlier days and his man-management.

“The biggest difference… is how hard we train during the weeks now and how fit and prepared we are for games,” said Jansson. “We know exactly how to play and what the strengths and weaknesses of every team are, regardless of who it is.

“In training sessions he doesn’t want to come too close to his players or make a personal connection that other coaches have, which isn’t a problem for me as long as he takes care of us and wants to make us better players. But if you win a game and come into the dressing room he will be really happy and you will get a hug and smile off him, which is nice.”

Up next for Leeds is the visit of fellow high-flyers Derby County to Elland Road, the Whites having the opportunity to edge five points clear of second-placed Norwich City.