Liam Cooper lauds Pascal Struijk on Instagram after Leeds win

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Liam Cooper was amongst those to laud Pascal Struijk on Instagram after Leeds United’s 1-0 victory over Burnley at Elland Road on Sunday.

Struijk was given a chance to start with Cooper and Diego Llorente not ready to feature. And with Burnley starting with two up front, the 21-year-old was picked as part of a back three alongside Luke Ayling and Kalvin Phillips.

It proved to be an eventful afternoon for Leeds’s defence. Patrick Bamford had given Marcelo Bielsa’s side an early lead from the penalty spot. But Burnley caused plenty of problems.

Leeds needed to produce an outstanding defensive display. Illan Meslier was continually having to come off his line to deal with crosses and set-pieces.

Meanwhile, Phillips arguably produced one of his best displays in the Premier League. But Struijk was also a revelation in the narrow victory.

Only Chris Wood and Meslier won more aerial duels than Struijk, according to Whoscored. He also made two successful tackles, four clearances and three interceptions.

It was a remarkable performance given that he may not have been expecting to play. His previous start had come in midfield in early November.

He has certainly left Bielsa with food for thought for when Cooper and Llorente are back. And Cooper himself was clearly impressed by the youngster’s performance.

Struijk took to Instagram following the game, and the Leeds captain was amongst those to reply…