Gordon Strachan impressed with Leeds target, highlights his ‘Sadio Mane role’ as impressive

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Former Leeds United midfielder, Gordon Strachan, has compared the role of potential signing Ryan Kent to that of Liverpool’s Sadio Mane. 

The Sun claimed today that Leeds are eyeing up a £10m move for Kent, who impressed in Glasgow last season under the guidance of Steven Gerrard. Indeed, such was his impressive form, it saw him voted as the best young player in Scotland last season.

Kent moved north of the border on a permanent deal from Liverpool. And Strachan, who made over 200 appearances for Leeds as a player, has compared Kent’s role in the Gers XI to that of Liverpool’s Mane. (Daily Star)

“The way Steven and Gary McAllister have set Rangers up is very clever. When they signed Ryan Kent, most of us were assuming that he’d be played as a left-winger.

“Instead, he’s in a Sadio Mane role, as an old fashioned inside forward, with Joe Aribo on the other side. Like Liverpool, the width comes from the full-backs. It’s a lovely system, as it means that you have five players in the centre of the field – which determines that you win most of the ball.”

Those sorts of comments should give Leeds fans an insight into how he might operate in their own system. The Whites currently play with two wide forwards and Patrick Bamford down the middle.

It seems, then, based on Strachan’s comments, that Kent may well fit right in at Elland Road.

Kent a good signing and Strachan’s comments are encouraging – TBR View

Leeds like to get the ball forward quickly and move through the lines and having players who are already accustomed to being in similar roles elsewhere might be crucial.

Kent would need to get up to speed with ‘Bielsa Ball’, but having the right idea from the off would be a bonus.

If Leeds do sign him, they’ll be hoping to see some Sadio Mane-like performances, that’s for sure.