Leeds United’s Marcelo Bielsa should consider a tactical curveball against Derby County on Saturday.
Ashley Cole looks like he’s going to make Derby County’s visit of Leeds United on Saturday.
Frank Lampard’s side host Leeds at Pride Park in the first leg of their Premier League playoff semi-final.
Lampard confirmed on Tuesday that he expected to have Cole fit and ready [The Daily Star] – and United boss Marcelo Bielsa should exploit the veteran defender as much as possible.
Cole has enjoyed a phenomenal career, but he is 38 years of age and despite his past achievements, he can’t be the player he was.
If he plays, Cole will expect to line up against Pablo Hernandez, but a curveball from Bielsa would surprise Lampard and could give the Whites a big advantage.
Instead of Hernandez, the Argentine coach should pit the younger and quicker Jack Harrison against Cole. Full-backs don’t like marking pacey tricksters – and 38-year-old ones definitely don’t.
Harrison, who earns £51,000 per week at parent club Manchester City [Spotrac], could exploit the former England international in ways that Hernandez won’t.
The Spaniard has been Leeds’ best player this season, but maybe he is better suited to the other flank or a number 10 role on this occasion. Harrison, on his day, could seriously trouble Cole and Bielsa should keep it in mind.
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