Leeds secured a topsy-turvy 6-2 win over Serie B side Cagliari on Sunday evening in front of an Elland Road crowd, a week before their opener against Wolves – and here are our player ratings from the victory.
Illan Meslier – 7
Quiet-ish evening for the French goalkeeper. Leeds dominated from start to finish against Serie A opposition limiting Meslier’s involvement to just possession. Comfortable on the ball, could do little about Cagliari’s goals.
Rasmus Kristensen – 7
Already becoming a warrior at Leeds. Dominated the right flank and even ended the match sporting a black headband and a shiner, after an aerial challenge. However, out of position for Cagliari’s second.
Robin Koch – 7
Decent, but out of position at times. The Germany international’s consistency during pre-season has been eye-catching, as has Jesse Marsch’s use of Koch at centre-back. Good header for Leeds’ sixth goal.
- Newcastle and Tottenham want Leeds star, but Elland Road is his best move
- Robin Koch an unsung hero at right-back in Leeds’ final games of 21/22
Diego Llorente – 6
Not dissimilar from Koch. Perhaps not as good in possession, but makes up for it with his defensive intelligence and recovery speed. With Struijk seemingly moving to left-back, Llorente may find himself starting with Koch.
Pascal Struijk – 8
Throughout pre-season, the left-back issue has been a concern for Leeds following the injury to Junior Firpo. Leif Davis has left, Jack Harrison has played there. Struijk has struggled beforehand. But against Cagliari, he was excellent.
Tyler Adams – 8
Combative. Some brilliant moments where the United States international won the ball when it looked unlikely. Passing was simple, but necessary. He replaces the defensive side of Kalvin Phillips.
Marc Roca – 7
With Adams covering Phillips’ defensive side, Roca adds the deep-lying playmaker, creative side. Would have liked to have got on the ball more often than he did, but some nice passing and willing to make a tackle when needed.
Brenden Aaronson – 9
The first of Marsch’s summer signings, Aaronson produced his best performance so far. Picking up position that Cagliari could not deal with, his assist for Patrick Bamford’s first goal was absolutely beautiful. A work of art.
Rodrigo – 9
A hat-trick for the Spain star. His first, a gorgeous finish that deceived the Cagliari goalkeeper and flew into the top corner. Created his second with a chip, combining well with Harrison to score his second. A tap-in, for the third.
Jack Harrison – 9
Stunning performance from Harrison, perhaps reminding some fans that they would happy to see him sold – just what he brings to this side. Two assists, and deserved a goal himself. Looked like the no.11 shirt suited him.
Patrick Bamford – 9
In what will have been perhaps his first 90 minutes in a long time, Bamford looked sharp. Two goals for the England star, including a brilliant finish when one on one. Really positive signs for Leeds.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
