Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhuttl has told his Thursday press conference that Leeds United manager Jesse Marsch is an “outstanding character” and that a move to Elland Road was the right step for his career.
Marsch, 48, has followed Hasenhuttl’s career to a degree – managing German side RB Leipzig before moving to England. Hasenhuttl had more success at Leipzig than Marsch, and the duo go head to head on Saturday.
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With Southampton having little to play for, the pressure is all on Leeds at Elland Road in their fight to avoid relegation. The Whites are on a high, coming into the game after two wins in their last two under Marsch.
Speaking ahead of the game, Hasenhuttl was full of praise for Leeds boss Marsch. He gave an insight into the American’s relationship with his players and the how it has been pleasing to watch Marsch grow as a manager.
“He’s an outstanding character, he’s very close to the players. It was interesting to watch his development as a coach, I think the step he made was absolutely good. It’s the right way to go.”
Hasenhuttl on Marsch: Leeds boss is doing what he needs to stay up
Marsch adopted a Leeds side beleaguered with injury, lacking in confidence and a worried fan base staring at the prospect of relegation. But the likable American has reunited Leeds with the fans, reconnected with the squad.
Marcelo Bielsa was renowned for having a distant relationship with the Leeds players. Marsch has changed the tactics, the training, the relationship with the players. He is doing everything he needed to do to keep Leeds up.
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