Sam Stone

Tue 28 February 2023 21:38, UK

Leeds United crashed out of the FA Cup at the hands of Fulham as Javi Gracia suffered his first defeat as the club’s head coach.

Goals from Manor Solomon and João Palhinha were enough for Marco Silva’s side to book their place in the sixth round.

It was a frustrating night for Gracia’s men and here MOT Leeds News rates the players for their performances in West London.

Illan Meslier – 5

Not quite sure what Meslier was doing for Fulham’s opener. It was an exquisite finish from Palhinha but his task was certainly made easier due to the Frenchman’s position. Perhaps he wasn’t helped by Tyler Adams giving the ball away so cheaply.

Luke Ayling – 5

Solid performance from the Leeds United right back. Fulham did cause problems down the left-hand side but, for the most part, he dealt with them well. Poor delivery at times.

Rasmus Kristensen – 3

Tough night for Kristensen who was operating in a central role. His passing out from the back was inconsistent and didn’t allow Leeds to play out easily. Still not showing his worth in a white shirt. Was fortunate to see Aleksandar Mitrović flagged offside after misjudging a header.

Robin Koch – 5

Stood up to Fulham’s lively and physical attack but found life tough alongside Kristensen. It’s not a partnership we want to see in the upcoming Premier League fixtures.

Junior Firpo – 6

Decent night’s work from Firpo who coped better than Ayling. It’s been a positive couple of weeks from the heavily scrutinised full-back. Long may it continue.

Tyler Adams – 4

Adams has been one of Leeds’ standout performers in the 2022/23 season but he cannot escape criticism. His decision in the lead-up to the first goal was suicidal and cost his team. He’s far better than what he produced at Craven Cottage and he will know his performance level must improve.

Weston McKennie – 6

Really impressive first-half performance from the January signing, who looked like the player we were all expecting him to be. Was driving forward at will and picking clever passes into Leeds’ pacey attacker. Faded slightly in the second period.

Marc Roca – 5

A decent performance from the Spaniard who didn’t really put a foot wrong in the centre of the park. However, he didn’t offer enough when Gracia’s side were trying to get back into the game. Not quite the leader Leeds needed.

Willy Gnonto – 5

Another quiet performance from the Italian, but his end product was lacking. He wasn’t quite at the levels we have previously seen and cannot have any complaints about being substituted.

Georginio Rutter – 6

Mixed night for the club record signing. Struggled to hold the ball up at times but did look lively in and around the box and didn’t lack confidence.

Crysencio Summerville – 7

The Whites’ main attacking threat. Always looked to beat his man and get the ball in the box whenever it was possible. Main plenty of unselfish runs and probably should’ve been given the ball more often by his teammates. Excellent performance and didn’t deserve to be on the losing side.

Substitutes

Jack Harrison (on for Gnonto, 63′) – 5

Patrick Bamford (on for Rutter, 63′) – 6

Brenden Aaronson (on for Roca, 74′) – 6

In other Leeds United news, the club may now face a losing battle to keep their star player at Elland Road beyond the summer transfer window.

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