Diego Llorente applauds Ayling and Dallas, details key reason for joining Leeds
Diego Llorente has revealed a key factor that persuaded him to join Leeds United and also picked out two teammates for praise.
The defender is enjoying his first run in the team at present but he has learnt a lot from sitting on the sidelines.
Stuart Dallas and Luke Ayling have caught his eye and shown him what he needs to do to play under Marcelo Bielsa.
Llorente told the Yorkshire Evening Post, “Being aware that Leeds favoured that system [man marking] as well was one of the things that attracted me to come here and play.
“One of the most striking things I’ve noticed since I came to the club is the amazing qualities players like Stuart Dallas and Luke Ayling have got, given they’ve never played in the Premier League.
“They’ve taken to it really well. They can run for such a long time and at such a high intensity.
“It’s something to be admired, something I’m really happy about because it helps the team. I have to try and replicate it myself.”
Another Orta gem?
Llorente is still to prove himself over a lengthy period of time, but the early signs on and off the pitch are positive.
He has slotted in well alongside Liam Cooper in the last two matches and helped the side concede just one goal.
His performances should improve as his understanding with teammates grows.
The centre-back is still adjusting to the Premier League too, and of course to Bielsa demands.
Fortunately, he seems to be a big fan of our style of play and it is interesting that factor drew him to Elland Road.
We hope that will encourage other big-name players to join in the summer.
With 2.5 tackles and 2.3 clearances per game [WhoScored] Llorente has made a difference to the back four – only three players have bettered his tackling return.
AThe Spaniard has also achieved an 80% pass accuracy and likes to play out from the back, which is exactly what Orta was looking for in trying to replace Ben White last summer.
It is important the 27-year-old now stays fit so that he can build on his good start.
In other Leeds United news, one injured player dropped a big hint that he could be back to play West Ham on Monday.