Graham Smyth notices something different about Ethan Ampadu that’s going under the radar for Leeds
Ethan Ampadu’s leadership skills are not going unnoticed at Leeds United this season.
Ampadu has been a key part of Daniel Farke‘s side in their first Premier League campaign since the 2022-23 season.
The Welsh international has made 23 appearances so far for the Whites, with one goal and one assist in those matches.
However, his impact is felt is a much bigger way than his contributions, or lack of them, in front of goal.
What did Graham Smyth notice about Ethan Ampadu?
The 25-year-old has been a brilliant captain for the Peacocks, willing to throw himself into challenges and risk his health as a result.
Yorkshire Evening Post journalist Graham Smyth has noticed him doing something which highlights his leadership abilities even more this season, and is going under the radar.
The Welshman has been spotted trying to manage the way other teams surround referees and try to influence their decisions, which Smyth thinks is vital.
Taking to X to reply to a supporter on 12 February, he said: “He’s been doing a lot of that this season, trying to manage the other team’s management of the referees.
“So much more noticeable than in the Championship. And probably vital against ‘big’ teams.”
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How has Ampadu performed statistically this season?
Ampadu does not pop of the statistics sheet, especially when it comes to his attacking figures.
The midfielder has scored at a rate of 0.04 goals per game, recorded 0.7 total shots per game and has missed two big chances, per Sofascore.
He has made 1.35 expected assists, and completed 86 per cent of his passes, while also making 0.5 key passes.
Defensively, he has made 1.4 interceptions per game, 2.2 tackles per game and 2.3 clearances per game, in the top-flight so far.
| Stats | Ampadu |
| Interceptions per game | 1.4 |
| Tackles per game | 2.2 |
| Clearances per game | 2.3 |
| Ground duels won | 62% |
| Aerial duels won | 63% |
The LS11 star has won 62 per cent of his ground duels that he has attempted, and 63 per cent of the aerial battles that he has contested.
It is clear that he is excelling when the Whites do not have the ball, which is exactly what you would expect from a player with his attitude to the game.
He has been absolutely crucial for Farke’s side, and what Smyth has noticed is not reflected in any stats, but is equally as important as any block, interception or tackle.
As long as he continues to lead from the front and set the example for his teammates, the Peacocks should be just fine and secure survival in the final 12 matches.
For more Leeds updates, keep an eye on Football Insider for the latest news on Farke and his players.