Leeds United are a joy to watch this season and they have been simply phenomenal since the turn of the year.
Under Daniel Farke, the Whites remain the only side in the Championship who have remained undefeated at home thus far.
The Whites have been terrific in 2024, having managed 11 wins and a draw in their last 12 games, including a 2-0 win against Sheffield Wednesday on Friday night.
There have been a lot of talks about their strength and quality upfront. The likes of Patrick Bamford, Georginio Rutter, Crysencio Summerville, Dan James, Willy Gnonto and others have stepped up this season and contributed heavily.
However, they have been equally rock solid at the back. Joe Rodon initially forged a strong partnership at the back with Pascal Struijk. After the Dutchman got injured, Farke used Ethan Ampadu in defence, and he has been magnificent for the club this season.
Ethan Ampadu – what a player for Leeds!
Ampadu has made 37 starts this season and he is a true leader. His partnership with Rodon at the back has made a big difference to the side, and Clinton Morrison has hailed him as an “outstanding” player.
The 23-year-old picked up the Player of the Match award as Leeds secured yet another victory away from home. Speaking on Sky Sports before the game, Morisson said Ampadu leads by example, and he is an “exceptional” player.
“Let me tell you. Outstanding player. The guy can go whatever he wants to be,” said Morrison.
“He can play in holding midfield or centre-half like he’s doing right now. He’s 23, still very young player. He is an exceptional player. He is the captain here, leads by example.”
It will be interesting to see if Farke brings Struijk back in defence once he returns to full fitness. Struijk is a key player for Leeds and it would be a waste to not use him properly.
Having said that, Farke probably won’t be keen to disrupt the balance in defence, although Ampadu can easily go back to midfield and do his customary job.
In other Leeds news, Ethan Ampadu was blown away by one Whites teammate after what he did v Sheffield Wednesday.
