Leeds fans delighted with Liam Cooper after Newcastle win, amid recent criticism

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Leeds United produced a marvelous display to beat Newcastle United 5-2 at Elland Road on Wednesday night despite initially going behind to Jeff Hendrick’s opener – and Leeds fans have applauded captain Liam Cooper.

Marcelo Bielsa’s men came into the match having won just once in their last six league games. Two real weaknesses have emerged – the inability to deal with set-pieces, and failing to unlock sides who play on the counter.

Three of the five goals conceded against Chelsea and West Ham were from set-plays – while defeats to Leicester, Palace and West Ham have shown a clear struggle when it comes to facing a low block that play on the counter.

However, Leeds put Newcastle to the sword on Wednesday night. Hendrick scored first, but goals from Patrick Bamford, Rodrigo, Stuart Dallas, Gjanni Alioski and a wonder strike from Jack Harrison saw Leeds net five.

Ciaran Clark’s header did make it four goals in three games conceded from set-pieces, but Cooper was an animal at the back. WhoScored claim he won seven aerial duels, while the rest of the Leeds players managed a combined 11.

Not only that, but Cooper was joint first in tackles and second only to Kalvin Phillips in interceptions. A stunning performance by a man that has come under fire – given Leeds weakness from set-pieces and overall defending of late.

Leeds fans applauded Cooper for his lion-like performance, after the win ended a dismal run of just four points from a possible 18. Certainly, the Leeds skipper got the better of a current England striker in Callum Wilson.

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