Henry Winter hails Leeds United ace Tyler Adams as weekend wonder amid Weston McKennie bond in Southampton win
Tyler Adams is “integral” to Leeds United and is forming a strong partnership with fellow American Weston McKennie, according to Henry Winter.
The Times writer hailed the midfielder as one of his “weekend wonders” after the Whites recorded a vital 1-0 win over Southampton in Javi Gracia’s first game in charge on Saturday (25 February).
Junior Firpo’s goal was enough for three points, as Leeds United profited from their “American dream” in the centre-of the park with Adams alongside international teammate McKennie.
In his Times column Winter wrote: “In his 22 Premier League games this season, Tyler Adams has still to score or provide an assist but he is integral to Leeds United. His work-rate, energy and non-stop running are only part of his game.
“Against Southampton he won six of his duels, recovered the ball seven times and his pass accuracy was 89 per cent.
“He is also forming a strong club partnership with his international team-mate Weston McKennie — Leeds United States.”
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In the situation the Whites found themselves going into the bottom of the table clash it didn’t really matter how a win came about, but it was encouraging that it was no fluke.
The home side dominated proceedings against a team that was riding high after winning at Stamford Bridge a week earlier, and crucially for once made it pay with Firpo’s late strike.
On the day Adams was arguably overshadowed by USMNT partner McKennie, who was more noticeable on the ball in addition to pressing well, even if he did waste two strong opportunities to open the scoring in the first half.
The January signing from Juventus is in line to become a permanent fixture at Elland Road if Gracia is successful in keeping the club up, having featured in every game since his arrival.
His international captain Adams, who himself only arrived in the summer from RB Leipzig, has already established himself as an important player, whether beside McKennie or Marc Roca.
The 24-year-old is always a combative presence in the midfield even if he could still benefit from providing some more calm in possession during chaotic United games.
McKennie looked like he might be the man to start introducing that under Gracia on Saturday, and the pair are likely to be mainstays in the line-up through the rest of the season.
In other Leeds United news, a important Fulham player has been revealed as surprisingly available for the FA Cup clash on Tuesday.
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