Journalist shares Tyler Roberts moment that left Marcelo Bielsa unhappy v Arsenal
Leeds United forward Tyler Roberts was handed a start for Tuesday night’s League Cup clash at Arsenal, but the 22-year-old lasted just 53 minutes before he was hauled off.
The Wales international has found starts difficult to come by this season, with last night just his fourth for the Whites during the 2021/22 campaign.
He may continue to be starved of starting XI opportunities on the evidence of the 2-0 defeat at the Emirates Stadium.
LeedsLive journalist Beren Cross has shared the moment that left Marcelo Bielsa visibly upset against the Gunners, leading to the introduction of Joe Gelhardt.
Cross wrote: “In the final passage of play before Bielsa barked at Benoit Delaval, via Pablo Quiroga, for the number 30, Tyler Roberts had received the ball in a dangerous position with Arsenal out of shape and primed for a Leeds counter.
“Rather than convincingly try to turn Ainsley Maitland-Niles and play the chance, Roberts looked for the contact from behind, went down and saw Andre Marriner wave play on.
“Bielsa was evidently unhappy and immediately turned for the youngster.”
Patience wearing thin?
Bielsa has always been Roberts’ biggest cheerleader, even when his inclusion has been questioned by supporters.
But could the Argentine be less inclined to offer him opportunities now?
Gelhardt’s cameo against Wolves on Saturday has put him in contention for more minutes and that could have a big effect on Roberts, given they are both likely vying for the attacking midfield slot.
Roberts’ confidence appears shot at times, and perhaps he needs a loan spell to reignite his career.
He looks to be dropping down the pecking order at Leeds, and it will take some effort to host himself back up.
In other Leeds United news, Adrian Durham has urged Marcelo Bielsa to make a big decision after this ‘astonishing’ development last week.