'Better than Van Dijk': Leeds fans impressed with Charlie Cresswell on debut

By Lee Connor

Leeds fans have been giving their instant reaction to the game with West Ham today, as the clash finished 2-1 to the Hammers at Elland Road.

The Whites started well and had a decent opening 45 minutes but couldn’t capitalise. Despite Raphinha opening the scoring, West Ham equalised in the second half when new Leeds signing, Junior Firpo, scored an own goal.

And in fitting with the pattern of the game, Michail Antonio scored a late, late winner for the Hammers.

Manager Marcelo Bielsa opted to give Daniel James a start on the wing, while Jamie Shackleton was also afforded the chance to impress. But all eyes were on young defender Charlie Cresswell, who was handed a debut at the age of 18.

Much is expected of Cresswell after his impressive rise through the ranks at the club. Like so many other young players, Cresswell has been given the chance to impress under Bielsa’s guidance.

And today, the teenager showed he has more than enough in the locker to be a Premier League player for years to come. Cresswell displayed a maturity in his game and could well get more chances this term.

Leeds fans, then, wanted to praise Cresswell on social media and Twitter was full of comments from impressed supporters.

Here’s a look at what some had to say about Charlie Cresswell today.