Pundit demands urgent Leeds transfer fix as Bielsa is told star is ‘major problem’
Leeds United boss Marcelo Bielsa has been told his squad desperately lacks a playmaker and that Marcelo Bielsa appears to have misplaced trust in one star he often called upon.
The Whites remain winless this season after three draws and two defeats from their opening five games. Friday night’s 1-1 draw at Newcastle was particularly frustrating given they took an early lead through Raphinha but then failed to build on in.
Ultimately an excellent goal from Allan Saint-Maximin dragged the hosts level and ensured the points were shared. But it left Bielsa admitting afterwards that he’s concerned by Leeds’ winless start. That leaves the Yorkshire outfit 16th before the rest of the weekend’s games.
Leeds started with Daniel James and Raphinha on the wings at St James’ Park.
However, the former was replaced just after the hour mark by Tyler Roberts. However, the Wales forward struggled to have an impact on the match as both sides were forced to settle for a point.
Now pundit Gabriel Agbonlahor has torn into Roberts, claiming he’s not good enough for Leeds or the Premier League.
Asked about Roberts for Football Insider, Agbonlahor did not mince his words.
“For me, he is not good enough for Leeds or Premier League level.
“He has some decent touches and gets in good positions, but his passing and decision-making keeps letting him down.
“It must be frustrating to watch for Leeds fans as moves keep breaking down when Roberts is on the ball. It’s shocking how often that happens.
“I don’t see him as the answer for Leeds, even though Marcelo Bielsa has a lot of faith in him.”
Asked what position he would urge Leeds to strengthen in the transfer market, and Agbonlahor had little doubt.
“Leeds are crying out for a number 10, a James Maddison, a Jack Grealish, an Emi Buendia, and they haven’t got one,” he added.
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Leeds ‘knocking on the door’ – Cooper
Reacting to the result, Leeds defender Liam Cooper said: “We came here to play our stuff. It’s never an easy place to come. We got the early goal which is what we wanted and needed and then conceded a sloppy goal in our half. We all know how big it is to put chances in and keep them out at the other end. I’m gutted to be honest.
“Newcastle defended well. They sat deep and filled the box. That makes it difficult for us to get in behind. We need to improve on that and I’m sure we will. Nobody is going to turn it around. We’ve got to go and do it and go and get the results and we will look to do that.”
On his battle with Saint-Maximin, he added: “We all know how good he is with dribbling. He’s probably one of the fastest players in the league so you’ve got to be on song and switched on at all times. I thought we coped pretty well with him apart from the goal.”
On the club’s search for a win: “We’re knocking on the door. Winning any game in this league is tough, we all know that. We need one fast and we deserved one tonight.”
READ MORE: ‘The end of him’ – Fatal Bielsa issue cited for Leeds Utd star facing axe
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