Leeds United boss Paul Heckinbottom explains why he didn’t start Samu Saiz

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Leeds United drew 2-2 with Derby County at Pride Park last night.

Paul Heckingbottom has admitted BBC Radio Leeds that he was very tempted to bring in Samu Saiz from the start for Leeds United’s match against Derby County last night.

Saiz was available for selection again after serving a six match suspension last night, but Heckingbottom resisted the urge to play the Spaniard from the off.

Saiz was kept on the bench, and only brought on as a substitute for the second half.

The attacking midfielder immediately showed his talents, and had a big impact on the match.

Saiz set up Leeds’ second goal in the contest, with a wonderful piece of skill to play to release Ezgjan Alioski.

And Heckingbottom admits that he nearly put Saiz from the start, as he is such a talent.

“I was tempted because he’s one player I know all about,” the Leeds boss admitted.

“I’ve seen a lot of him. But Roofe and Pierre deserved their chance after scoring in the last game and I knew Samu wouldn’t be able to last. We wanted to keep him hungry and make him earn his place.”

Leeds ended up drawing the contest 2-2 with Derby yesterday, with the Whites suffering late heart-break.

Alioski’s goal had looked to provide them with a crucial three points, but Kasey Palmer popped up in injury time to rescue a point for the hosts.