“3/10 performance rating, what a waste of time, he must now be DROP, his time is over at Elland Road”- Leeds United player ratings vs Middlesbrough as injured Dan James fantastic but 3/10 star must now be dropped
Leeds United secured a vital 1-0 victory over Middlesbrough, marking their return to winning ways.
The pressure on Leeds to overcome their struggles was intense, but they responded well with a strong start as Dan James scored within the first two minutes.
Daniel Farke’s side looked energized, but Middlesbrough fought back and had a goal rightfully ruled out for offside.
Leeds weren’t as fortunate when Ao Tanaka had a goal disallowed despite being clearly onside.
The Whites went into the break with the lead and came out strong in the second half, although they squandered several clear chances, giving Boro opportunities to counter.
Leeds had another goal incorrectly disallowed, this time from Patrick Bamford, but held firm under pressure to secure a crucial three points.
With Sheffield United losing and Burnley drawing, this win has propelled Leeds back to the top of the table.
Here’s how the players performed:
Karl Darlow – 8
Had little to do in the first half but remained a steady presence, making crucial saves after the break and commanding his area effectively.
Jayden Bogle – 7
Recovered from a tough previous game, showing commitment in every challenge, being more involved going forward, and delivering key passes. He had a tough battle with Middlesbrough’s Samuel Iling-Junior but held his ground.
Joe Rodon – 9
Set the tone early with high pressing to regain possession and kept up the pressure throughout. Made vital defensive interventions and won several aerial duels as Leeds defended their lead.
Ethan Ampadu – 7
Stepped in at centre-back for the injured Pascal Struijk and performed admirably, making numerous clearances both with his feet and head.
Junior Firpo – 7
Played a more attacking role, with a well-weighted pass contributing to the opening goal. While he created chances, he struggled defensively in the second half as Boro ramped up their attacks before being substituted.
Ao Tanaka – 5
Struggled with passing and pressing, and was easily bypassed by opponents. Though he was unlucky with a disallowed goal, his overall performance remained underwhelming.
Ilia Gruev – 6
Despite some fans questioning his inclusion, Gruev put in his best display since returning from injury. His focus was on covering for the attacking full-backs and disrupting Boro’s midfield, but he was sometimes easily bypassed.
Dan James – 8
A key figure in Leeds’ attack, James opened the scoring and was a constant threat with his runs, either shooting or setting up teammates. His injury near the end could prove a significant blow to Leeds’ promotion hopes.
Brenden Aaronson – 6
Despite fan discontent over his inclusion, Aaronson responded with a sharper performance, showing flashes of creativity. While not hugely influential, he worked hard and showed improvements in possession.
Manor Solomon – 7
Responded to the pressure to perform, setting up the early goal with a great cross. He looked sharper, linking up well with Firpo and creating a disallowed goal, but was substituted soon after.
Joel Piroe – 3
Piroe’s struggles continued, as he was largely ineffective, wasteful with the ball, and failed to capitalize on key chances. He was fortunate that Boro’s disallowed goal came after his poor clearance, and his place in the starting lineup is now under question.
Substitutes
Sam Byram – 7
Brought on to strengthen the right side, Byram was booked early for an accidental handball but made crucial blocks and clearances as Boro pressed forward.
Willy Gnonto – 6
Had a brilliant pass to Bamford that was incorrectly flagged for offside. He worked hard defensively and made a solid contribution.
Isaac Schmidt – 6
Provided a great assist for Bamford’s disallowed goal and showed energy with his runs up and down the pitch.
Patrick Bamford – 7
Brought more threat than Piroe, seeing a superb finish wrongly ruled out. He worked hard and added a much-needed spark in attack.
Josuha Guilavogui – N/A
Came on in added time.
