Sky Sports pundit blown away by Leeds United man Tyler Adams in Newcastle penalty incident

Stephen Warnock was highly impressed by Tyler Adams as the Leeds United man challenged Fabian Schar in the draw at St James' Park.

The American collided with the Magpies defender inside his own area late in the first half of the 0-0 draw on 31 December, with the home side looking for a penalty as a result.

It wasn't given on the day and former FIFA referee Dermot Gallagher agreed after the fact, while Warnock praised the Whites midfielder for getting everything right in a situation of fine margins.

Speaking on Sky Sports Ref Watch on Monday (2 January, 11.52am) Gallagher said: "He's bumped into him, it's hip to hip... It's as much [Schar] as it is Adams. Is it a penalty? For me, definitely not."

Warnock was delighted by the American's role in the incident, simply saying: "Brilliant defending, just gets in the line."

Key man

Gallagher frequently tends to back whichever decision the on-field referee makes but former Premier League defender Warnock was unequivocal in his support of Adams.

The improved defensive display away to one of the form teams in the league surely had a decent amount to do with the USMNT captain's return from suspension.

It was a good point that lifts a bit of pressure after back-to-back losses to Tottenham and Manchester City, and more will need to follow fast with the danger of another relegation battle closing in.

Prior to the draw in the North-East it has been defence that has made things difficult for Jesse Marsch's side, so Adams and his teammates replicating the rearguard action a few more times will go a long way to improving the overall fortunes.

The 23-year-old has drawn plenty of plaudits since his summer arrival in the Premier League, and is in particular focus now after leading his country in Qatar, so it is unlikely to be the last time that a pundit lauds his influence this season.

In other Leeds United news, an unexpected January arrival at Elland Road hasn't been ruled out by the player's manager.