Noel Whelan makes Gjanni Alioski claim after Leeds draw

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Noel Whelan has told BBC Radio Leeds that Leeds United are crying out for a new left-back after watching Gjanni Alioski’s display in their draw with Chelsea on Saturday.

The Whites have coped this season without a recognised senior option in that position. Alioski and Stuart Dallas have shared the responsibility, while Leif Davis made a brief appearance there against Manchester City.

It was the North Macedonia international who was deployed there against the Blues. But, while Leeds managed to keep a clean sheet, Alioski seemed to really struggle.

Christian Pulisic enjoyed a lot of success down Leeds’ left flank during the first-half. And it remained a problematic area for the Whites after the break.

Of course, there is little shame in struggling to deal with players such as Pulisic and Timo Werner. But Alioski’s weaknesses were exposed in the stalemate.

And for Whelan, the game provided all of the proof needed that Leeds must prioritise signing a new left-back at the end of the campaign.

“Yes, I agree [that we’re crying out for a left-back],” he told BBC Radio Leeds. “A natural full-back there that can cover most bases, definitely defensively because as much as he gives everything, he is a liability, he’s not the best of defenders.

“I think that’s why in the first-half, you could see a lot going down that left-hand side, really targeting Alioski. And we saw that frailty there again at times.”

TBR View: Time to let Alioski move on

As shown by Transfermarkt, Alioski’s contract at Leeds expires in the summer. So perhaps it may prove to be the right time to let the 29-year-old move on.

He has been a fantastic servant for the Whites. And he has enjoyed some bright moments this season. But if Leeds are going to progress, they arguably need a better option at left-back.

And unfortunately – given the options they have in other areas – there does not appear to be an obvious role for Alioski moving forward.

He is an ideal player to have on the bench given his versatility. But at this stage of his career, he may not be too happy about being a backup option.