Leeds United picked up a narrow 2-1 win over Australian side Brisbane Roar on Thursday morning thanks to goals from Joe Gelhardt and Dan James – and here are our player ratings from the victory:
Kristoffer Klaesson – 7 (90)
The Norwegian started the match with Illan Meslier not even in the squad. Could do little about the goal, making a good first save. Comfortable when in possession, and made a brilliant left-handed save on 62 minutes.
Rasmus Kristensen – 8 (45, replaced by Drameh)
Kristensen is a machine. Leeds have got themselves a real player for £10million. One every header, outmuscled Roar players on numerous occasions and got forward supremely well. Almost scored in first half with a rebound.
Robin Koch – 7 (60, replaced by Llorente)
Solid from Koch. Slight concern in the first half when landing on his neck during an aerial duel. But very good in possession, expected of a Germany international that can play in midfield. Couple of crucial blocks on counter.
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Pascal Struijk – 7 (90)
Some lovely long-range passing from the left-footed centre-back, with Jesse Marsch clearly looking to partner the two at centre-back this summer. Strong in the air, good on the ball. A good basis for Leeds to attack.
Jack Harrison – 3 (45, replaced by Davis)
Starting at left-back with Junior Firpo injured. But it was not the 25-year-old’s performance from left-back that was the issue, it was his passing and crossing. Overhit, misplaced. Dived in during one v one in first 45, left Leeds exposed. Poor.
Adam Forshaw – 6 (45, replaced by Adams)
Comfortable stroll in the middle of the park for Forshaw, who wore the captain’s armband. What you would expect from the ex-Boro man. Good in possession, hard-working, and got the assist for Dan James’ opener.
Marc Roca – 9 (45, replaced by Gyabi)
Oh, he’s good. His passing is supreme. But also, it is his positioning to find space in what was a jam-packed middle of the pitch. Again, as we saw at Blackpool, willing to put a tackle in. What a start Roca has made to life at Leeds.
Dan James – 9 (30, replaced by Sinisterra)
Given this was his first outing since Wales duty, James was sensational. Lasting 30 minutes and replaced by Luis Sinisterra, he got the opener with a brilliant finish – before his gorgeous chip was headed in by Joe Gelhardt.
Brenden Aaronson – 7 (45, replaced by Greenwood)
Some neat touches in Aaronson’s first showing as a Leeds player, the USA star looked calm and composed. Plenty of vigour, some neat turns and glimpses of magic – but nothing spectacular.
Rodrigo – 6 (45, replaced by Klich)
Perhaps the one player that tried to produce the most magic, and looked like a leader during the first half. But much of what he tried did not come off. Promising though, interesting to see how he fits under Marsch.
Joe Gelhardt – 8 (60, replaced by Bamford)
Every time Gelhardt plays, he impresses even more. It must be remembered that the England youth international only turned 20 in May. Stunning work rate, and his goal typified his style. Aggression, strong, but timing perfect.
Other notable performances:
Luis Sinisterra – 5 (60, replaced by Summerville)
Raphinha’s replacement did very little during his 30-minute display. But it must be said, Sinisterra joined Leeds less than a week ago and it will need time to get up to speed. Big things to come, but he offered little.
Darko Gyabi – 8 (45)
You can see why Leeds were keen to sign him. Some lovely touches, some lovely turns. Gorgeous cross on 54 minutes that should have been turned in. He looks like an incredible talent in central midfield, a brilliant start.
Tyler Adams – 7 (75, replaced by Gray)
Energetic, the USA international was everywhere during his 30-minute spell. His passing was good, but it is clear that his defensive mindset will give Leeds a good screen in front of the defence. Broke play up well.
Cody Drameh – 6 (45)
This summer is a big one for Drameh. With Luke Ayling injured and Kristensen coming in, he has to make an impression. Against Brisbane Roar, he got forward well but ultimately, he did little during his 45 minutes.
Patrick Bamford – 7 (30)
For Leeds fans, it is great to see their England striker back on the pitch after a season of injuries last term. Some neat touches in a congested penalty area, glanced a Sam Greenwood cross just past the post. Looked sharp.
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