Leeds United suffered their first pre-season friendly defeat of the summer with a 1-0 loss to Aston Villa in Australia on Sunday morning – and here are three things we learned from the feisty clash at the Suncorp Stadium.
Koch is now Marsch’s first pick
Starting all three pre-season friendlies, Robin Koch has been excellent in the middle of the defence. The Germany international has ridded himself of previous injuries, limiting him to just 38 outings in to seasons at Leeds.
The £13million (Mail) signing has looked solid at centre-back – alongside Pascal Struijk or Diego Llorente. He won everything in the air, but he is incredibly good in possession too, given he can play in midfield.
It might be that the 2022-23 campaign is the season where Koch finally proves his worth – by establishing himself at centre-back. The hope is now, he is injury free. But clearly, he is first choice in the middle of the defence.
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Harrison has his head turned
Jack Harrison gave an immediate interview after the match and asked if he is staying put, he said “we’ll see, we’ll see”. Now, it could well have been the heat of the moment, or that he might be in talks to extend his current deal.
The winger signed a three-year deal last summer when joining permanently from Manchester City. Newcastle are planning a £35million move, and it would be incredibly lucrative for the uncapped Englishman.
Yes, it could have been the heat of the moment, or his contract. But realistically, he is keeping his options open and will have aimed a hint at Newcastle to ‘come and get me’. Leeds need to tie him down to a new deal as soon as possible.
Forshaw a surprise package
The hype has surrounded the additions of Marc Roca – who has been superb in all three friendlies – and Adams. Both started against Villa. But Forshaw was excellent against Brisbane Roar, and very good when coming on against Villa.
Yes, Adams and Roca will be the first-choice midfield paring either in a 4-2-3-1, or a 4-2-2-2. But Forshaw will be first reserve and he is proving he could even be solid competition. Great attitude, fitness and quality so far.
Marcelo Bielsa once said he is capable of Champions League level-performances. This summer, he is showing that he can adapt quickly and get better as the players get better around him. The one surprise to stand out this summer.
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