Ethan Ampadu Leeds United trait wows BBC pundit, he brings nuance
Jon Newsome believes Ethan Ampadu was “excellent” for Leeds United in their Championship victory over Derby on Sunday.
The midfielder was put back into his favoured role of defensive midfield against the Rams and once again impressed with the skillset and work rate he showed.
Leeds’ 1-0 win over Paul Warne’s men allowed them to cement their place at the top of the second-tier table and created a two-point cushion between themselves and second-placed Sheffield United.
Speaking live on BBC Radio Leeds’ West Yorkshire Sport Football Forum (29 December), BBC pundit Newsome and journalist Jonny Buchan shared their thoughts on the Welshman’s performance.
“I think Ethan Ampadu has maybe been the difference in these last couple of games for Leeds,” Buchan said.
To which Newsome replied: “He just adds that little bit of steel doesn’t he, that little bit of nuance and when he gets on top a little bit he’ll just drop two or three yards deeper and put a bit of a shield on the two centre-backs which helps you put.
“So yeah, he’s been excellent, really, really good”.
Ethan Ampadu could hold the key to Leeds United promotion
Ampadu has spent plenty of the 2024/25 season sidelined and, upon his return to the team, you could tell that his presence had been missed.
Not only is it his leadership skills but it’s also his vision for a pass and ability to work up and down the pitch throughout the entirety of the clash.
He seemed to slot next to Ao Tanaka seamlessly in their 1-0 victory over Derby on Sunday and if he can keep his performances to that level, there’s no reason why he couldn’t lead Daniel Farke’s men to promotion glory.
Of course, there will be the odd game here and there when the midfielder will be slightly off the pace but even since last season, it’s clear to see how far he’s come.
There’s still more than half of the season left and, as with everything in football, things can change in an instant but if the Whites continue playing at this level, there’s no reason why they can’t end the campaign in the promotion places.
In other Leeds news, the Whites need to prove Adam Pope wrong and give Daniel Farke a January gift to help them earn Premier League promotion.
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