Jermaine Beckford drools over Leeds United talent Pascal Struijk
Jermaine Beckford has showered heaps of praise on Leeds United defender Pascal Struijk for his brilliant performance against West Ham.
The 22-year-old returned to action after a long injury lay-off and produced a superb performance as the Whites won 3-2 against the Hammers at the London Stadium last Sunday (18 January).
With that result, Leeds have now managed back to back wins in the Premier League.
“What a player he is looking by the way,” said Beckford to Leeds United official podcast.
“I don’t want to put too much pressure on him. That’s twice we saw him against West Ham, against a very quick centre-forward in Michail Antonio, and a tricky player in Bowen.
“I don’t want to say that he had them in his pocket…you know, I think he did.”
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The 22-year-old has made 13 Premier League appearances this season for the Whites.
He has struggled with injuries, but he made a superb return against the Hammers last week.
According to Whoscored, he made as many as five tackles during the game.
On top of that, he made one interception and three clearances. He also blocked two shots. It’s a masterclass defensive performance and rightly deserves the praise.
The Dutchman is a very good passer of the ball, and he attempted 12 long balls during the game.
In fact, it was from one of his long ball deliveries, Raphinha worked way his magic in the build-up to the first goal.
Marcelo Bielsa often Struijk as a defensive midfielder last season, but it is as centre-back, where he is most comfortable.
In other Leeds United news, funding is reportedly to be made available to make this big signing.