Steven Gerrard has told Aston Villa’s website that Leeds United have improved under Jesse Marsch, and praised the club’s work in the transfer window. Gerrard also commented on Elland Road and the hostile atmosphere at Leeds.
Leeds were battered 3-0 in the same fixture last season at Elland Road. Philippe Coutinho, Matty Cash and Calum Chambers all scored for the Midlands side. It was only Marsch’s second game in charge, a real humbling result.
But Marsch kept Leeds up and has since spent north of £100million improving his side. Leeds have made an exciting start to the season, picking up eight points from six league games. Including, a 3-0 win over Chelsea at Elland Road.
Leeds are unbeaten at home this season. Meanwhile, Villa have struggled. They lost four of their opening six games but do come into Sunday’s clash after a draw against Manchester City and a victory over Southampton, winning 1-0.
Speaking ahead of what is only Leeds’ seventh Premier League game of the season, Gerrard praised Marsch. He applauded his tactics, saying Leeds look better-organised. He also praised the club’s work in the transfer window.
“Leeds have improved. Jesse came in and his back was against the wall to keep them in the league. He managed to do that. He’s recruited well, used pre-season really well, you can see they’re well-drilled, better organised.
“They’ve got a higher-level of player due to their recruitment. We’re going to face a better Leeds team, a team who are more confident and have more belief. We’re going into a really hostile environment, so the challenge is big.”
Gerrard: Leeds have improved under Marsch, praises transfers
Gerrard is right to say Leeds are in better shape than when the Whites lost to Villa last time out. It was £67k-a-week Marsch’s second game, as he tried to change the Leeds approach from a man-to-man system under Marcelo Bielsa.
The likes of Marc Roca and Tyler Adams have combined well in midfield, replacing Kalvin Phillips. Brenden Aaronson finally gives Leeds a no.10 that can create. Luis Sinisterra has scored six goals in eight games for club and country.
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