Bielsa raves about Leeds player, shares what he has done in training last week

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Marcelo Bielsa has raved about Leeds star Pascal Struijk after the defender was used as a left-back against Leicester City during Sunday’s 1-1 draw.

Leeds looked like their former selves – a breathtaking display that saw them create numerous chances. Only one goal scored, though, through Raphinha.

His fifth in the Premier League this season, the Brazilian curled a free-kick into the net – bamboozling the Leicester defence and Kasper Schmeichel.

But while Leeds flooded forward to get a second, they were of course vulnerable at the back. Harvey Barnes instantly replied, curling in.

Ademola Lookman was narrowly offside when tapping home, after a VAR check. A brilliant, high-tempo match, that saw Struijk play at left-back.

Already a very versatile player, Struijk was played in another new position. Speaking after the game, Bielsa raved about his work rate in training.

“A very hard-working man. In the mental and the physical assimilation of a new position. All week he was looking for solutions in a new position.”

Bielsa on Struijk: Leeds ace quickly becoming incredbly important

What many will not know, is that Struijk is approaching four years at Leeds United in January. He joined the club from Ajax back in January 2018.

In his first three years at the club, Struijk was in the Under-23 side – struggling to make any kind of impact. But his work rate is clearly excellent.

Now, Struijk is so important to Leeds. Not just because he is in good form at the moment, but his versatility allows him to play in numerous roles.

Centre-back, the left of a back three, the middle of a back three, a holding midfielder – by himself or in a double pivot. Now, as a left-back, too.

A crucial player for Leeds. With less than three years on his contract, perhaps a new deal should be in the offing.