Leeds United drew 1-1 with Crystal Palace after a controversial penalty scored by Rodrigo in the second half was cancelled out by Jean-Philippe Mateta – and here are three things learned from Friday’s match in Australia:
Sinisterra blow: All too familiar sight for Leeds
A huge blow for Leeds, if Luis Sinisterra has indeed pulled a hamstring. With just over two weeks to go until the start of the Premier League season, Jesse Marsch will be hoping it is just a tweak.
But it is a sight that Leeds fans have become all-too-accustomed with. Leeds will now have to rely on the likes of Dan James and Jack Harrison on the wings. Rodrigo has been used out wide during pre-season.
Marsch’s inverted-winger style suits the Spain international – and he replaced Sinisterra on Friday. Crysencio Summerville and Brenden Aaronson can also provide cover out wide, but with Raphinha going, Sinisterra is a blow.
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Harrison plays with a point to prove
While Harrison has always been hard-working, it looked like he was playing with a point to prove on Friday morning. Not only did he chase everything, but he looked strong and aggressive in the tackle, too.
It might be, that the ex-Manchester City winger – playing in front of his old manager Patrick Vieira – was playing with a point to prove. Immediately after the 1-0 loss to Aston Villa, he hinted at a possible exit: “We’ll see”.
It is no secret that Newcastle are interested in the uncapped Englishman. Even making a bid of £24million, which has been rejected – Leeds wanting £36million. This looked like Harrison was showing Leeds fans his commitment.
Leeds need to sign a left-back
With Firpo out, Harrison was used there against Brisbane Roar. Then Leif Davis against Villa. With Palace the opponents, Marsch tried Pascal Struijk on the left. But once again, it was an experiement that did not work.
He looked like a centre-back playing at left-back. At one point, Diego Llorente is seen screaming at Struijk when Tyler Adams is in possessio – with Struijk far too central and not giving Adams the chance of a 30-yard clip.
It is nothing against Struijk – or Harrison, or even Davis – but Leeds need a left-back this summer. They might have been interested in a left-back before Firpo’s injury and they simply have to be, now.
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