Exclusive: Nigel Martyn discusses Diego Llorente’s debut for Leeds against Chelsea

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Nigel Martyn has told The Boot Room that he was impressed with Leeds United defender Diego Llorente’s debut on Saturday evening against Chelsea after he replaced Robin Koch – but thinks the Leeds defence overplayed at times.

Llorente, 27, replaced Koch after just nine minutes on Saturday. Germany international Koch has since undergone knee surgery and has told newspaper Bild that he will be out until March, following the procedure.

The Spain international failed to prevent Leeds suffering a 3-1 defeat though looked good on the ball and did well – especially after being thrown in at the deep end against a Chelsea side firing on all cylinders.

Martyn spoke about Llorente’s debut and felt he impressed throughout. However, Martyn also believes the Leeds defence need to learn when to clear their lines – especially during times of pressure, something that was evident against Chelsea.

(Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images)

“I don’t know why that happened (the mocking from Chelsea fans). I missed why that happened, unless he shouted for a ball with a particularly high voice. That’s the only thing, if fans hear that, that’s what makes them scream.

“I thought he did well. On the day, Leeds created a lot of their own problems trying to play out from the back at times when there was too high a press. I know they will continue to do that,” Martyn continued.

“You have to realise sometimes it’s not worth the risk of another pass – sometimes you can be putting somebody else under pressure. I don’t think it’ll change but when there’s a high press, then you’re gonna have to go long at times.”

TBR’s view – Llorente has another tough game on Friday

West Ham are up next for Llorente and Leeds and with Koch ruled out, he is expected to start alongside Liam Cooper at centre-back. But it will be an altogether different contest when Leeds play host to West Ham on Friday.

The Hammers are not as quick going forward as Chelsea, but they boast a much bigger threat in the air – and physically. Tomas Soucek, Sebastian Haller, Declan Rice, Angelo Ogbonna and more will provide a set-piece threat.

Llorente looked good in the air on Saturday but that will be tested even more so this weekend.