Ethan Ampadu equals Leeds legend Jack Charlton after 1-1 draw with Aston Villa
Ethan Ampadu matched Jack Charlton’s tally of competitive Leeds United starts as captain during the 1-1 draw with Aston Villa.
Ampadu played the full 90 minutes on Saturday as Daniel Farke’s side were denied what would have been a magnificent victory away at Villa Park.
Anton Stach’s long-range free-kick gave the visitors the lead on the half-hour mark, with the German catching out Emiliano Martinez and curling an audacious effort into the top corner.
However, Leeds only came away from the Midlands with a point, after Tammy Abraham turned home in the 88th minute to ensure the spoils were shared.
Ethan Ampadu matches Jack Charlton
Ampadu has been a standout player for Leeds this season and is undoubtedly one of the first names on Farke’s teamsheet every single week.
Bar the 1-1 draw with Manchester United in early January, for which he was suspended, the Welshman has started the last 24 Premier League games in a row.
As per LUFCDATA on X, Ampadu has now moved into the top 20 for most competitive Leeds starts as captain.
Following the draw with Aston Villa, the midfielder now sits alongside the legendary Jack Charlton, with the pair both on 77.
Ampadu’s next target is Luke Ayling, who started 80 competitive Leeds games as captain, but he is still a distance away from the late Billy Bremner (488) at the top of the list.
What did Ethan Ampadu say about Aston Villa draw?
As a result of the point away at Villa Park, Leeds remain six points clear of the Premier League relegation zone.
Farke’s side have now lost just two of their last 16 games, and on current form will have no issue avoiding an immediate return to the Championship.
Despite the positive overall situation, Ampadu was still left frustrated with the manner in which Leeds threw away victory against Aston Villa.
Taking to Instagram after the full-time whistle, the 25-year-old highlighted Leeds’ strong performance on the road, as well as thanking the travelling support.
He said: “Strong away performance but left frustrated. Another point. Amazing travelling support as always.”
Manchester City are next at Elland Road, before some much-needed winnable games arrive in the bid to stay in the Premier League.
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