Dan Carter

Mon 30 October 2023 9:40, UK

Leeds United supporters may have been disappointed following the Whites’ 1-0 defeat to Stoke City, but a 4-1 win over Huddersfield has quickly lifted spirits.

Daniel Farke’s side returned to winning ways impressively as they ran out heavy winners over the Terries, thanks to first-half braces from both Dan James and Crysencio Summerville in what was an excellent attacking display.

But once again, the defensive part of Farke’s side were in inspired form, with Joe Rodon, Sam Byram and Jamie Shackleton all shining once again. However, Pascal Struijk’s display in possession saw him perform as a conductor from the base of defence.

The 24-year-old completed an outstanding 131 accurate passes in the game, with a completion rate of 94.9 per cent, including three accurate long balls, with seven of his efforts being into the final third of the pitch [Sofascore].

Because of the Dutchman’s calmness in possession, he only made three clearances in the entirety of the game, instead repeatedly opting to look for a teammate, which allowed Leeds United to register an incredibly high 74 per cent of possession.

Defensively, Huddersfield did little to truly test the Whites, with the Terriers’ only real chance on goal being Michal Helik’s second-half strike, however, Struijk still performed well when he was called into action, winning three aerial duels, his only tackle and blocking an effort on goal.

Farke has been quick to praise his ever-present defender repeatedly this season, describing him as “crucial” to the Whites’ success in the early stages of the campaign, with his ability on the ball so widely recognised that the former Norwich City boss doesn’t feel the need to address it [Phil Hay, 24 October].

But Struijk’s ability on the ball deserves plenty of credit as it is providing the base on which the likes of James and Summerville are shining going forward this season. The 24-year-old sits in the 91st percentile of Championship defenders for passes completed per 90 minutes this season [Fbref].

Very few defenders in England’s second tier, let alone the rest of the Leeds squad are as consistent on the ball and if the Whites want to continue to push for the automatic promotion places this season, Struijk may well have become undroppable.

Hopefully, the Dutchman can stay fit and continue conducting the play from the heart of the defence for the remainder of the campaign.

In other Leeds United news, the Whites could be set for a surprise boost as Cody Drameh continues to learn from Ashley Cole