Jaka Bijol studies ‘really good player’ ahead of Leeds vs Crystal Palace – ‘We have to be ready’
Leeds United take on Crystal Palace at Elland Road on Saturday evening with Jaka Bijol likely to start his fourth game in a row.
Since Daniel Farke switched to a 5-3-2 system, Bijol has been a vital part of the defensive structure, showcasing his best form of the season.
The Whites are on a three-game unbeaten run in the Premier League, and have been a completely different proposition in their new formation.
However, Crystal Palace will still provide a tough challenge, and Bijol is wary of one man in particular.
Jaka Bijol makes ‘ready’ claim about Jean-Philippe Mateta
Bijol scored in Leeds’ 3-1 win over Chelsea, but it is the defensive side to his game which has stood out in recent times.
The 26-year-old looks so comfortable in the middle of a back three, alongside Joe Rodon and Pascal Struijk, and is fast becoming a really important player in Farke’s side.
With Crystal Palace making the trip to Elland Road on 20 December, Bijol will be directly up against Eagles striker Jean-Philippe Mateta.
The French marksman already has seven Premier League goals this season, and can often prove to be a real handful for opposition centre-backs.
When asked by BBC West Yorkshire if he’s been studying Mateta, Bijol said: “For sure, he’s had two great seasons now.
“He’s a big guy, a strong guy, a really good player. We will have to be ready as a team; it’s on us to do our job.”
This is how Leeds can beat Crystal Palace
While Bijol is rightly concerned about the impact Mateta could have on Saturday’s game, Farke’s side are more than capable of creating chances themselves.
Leeds have managed three goals in each of their last two games at Elland Road and have really found their shooting boots in recent weeks.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin has scored in four consecutive Premier League games, and like Mateta, is proving to be a real handful for the opposition backline.
The Whites moved three points clear of the relegation zone after picking up a point away at Brentford last Sunday, and there is no reason why they can’t build the gap to 18th-place West Ham with a win over Crystal Palace.
Enjoyed this article? Stay connected with all the latest news, updates, and behind-the-scenes content by following us on our new Instagram account – @motleedsnews