Marcelo Bielsa defends Leeds star Kiko Casilla’s decision making, but is he right?

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Marcelo Bielsa has told Leeds United’s official website that he believes goalkeeper Kiko Casilla is right to take the risks he does, following a 3-1 win over Bristol City – but is Bielsa’s trust in Casilla misplaced?

Leeds returned to the top of the Championship table after just the first round of fixtures – apart from Derby’s clash against Huddersfield on Monday night – with a superb away win that delighted Leeds fans at Ashton Gate.

Pablo Hernandez scored a screamer, before a well-worked approach saw Hernandez cross for Patrick Bamford, who headed home from close range. Jack Harrison made it three, before Andi Weimann got a consolation.

Casilla was seen, once again, coming to punch crosses away and missing, as well tackling Weimann in the first half after sprinting 25 yards to get to the ball first. It is risky, but Bielsa has backed the former Spain international.

“Today, Kiko took a risk again,” Bielsa said. “When you take a risk, you must value the reason. If he doesn’t make a mistake, it is good. If he makes a mistake, it will be bad.

“But today, Kiko showed a performance of personality and character. He managed the tempo of the game. He took risks, but he made no mistakes. He is right to take these types of risks, because he can read the game.”

TBR’s view – Casilla a bombscare? Or was Bielsa right to sell BPF?

Following the play-off defeat to Derby, the majority of Leeds fans would have said that a new goalkeeper was needed – or indeed Bailey Peacock-Farrell deserved a chance. Now, the pressure is certainly on Casilla.

Bielsa has shown his cards by selling Peacock-Farrell, meaning Casilla has been chosen to remain between the sticks at Elland Road. Against Bristol City, Casilla made some top saves and his reckless style paid dividends.

It worked – even if Liam Cooper is feeling the effects this morning. But the Bristol City win is one game out of 46. On Sunday it worked, but in the other 45 matches – who knows that will happen.

Bombscare is harsh, but Casilla certainly worries Leeds fans.