Micah Richards reveals which Leeds player he ‘absolutely loves’ – it’s not Calvert-Lewin
Leeds United have been one of the surprise packages of the Premier League this season.
Daniel Farke’s side got off to a slow start on their return to the top flight, but have completely turned their form around in recent weeks.
Leeds are now eight points clear of the relegation zone, and looking good to avoid an immediate return to the Championship.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin has been the star for Leeds, but it is one of his teammates who has caught Micah Richards’ eye.
Micah Richards praises midfielder who makes Leeds a ‘different team’
Ethan Ampadu has been praised for his brilliant performances this season, and is clearly one of the first names on Farke’s teamsheet every week.
The Welshman has started 18 of the 21 games Leeds have played in the Premier League so far this term, only ever missing out through injury or suspension.
Ampadu is so crucial to Farke’s midfield, often breaking up play and starting counter-attacks for the Whites.
He even managed to get on the scoresheet during Leeds’ 4-1 win over Crystal Palace at Elland Road, finishing from close range for what was his first-ever Premier League goal.
Speaking on The Rest is Football podcast, former Manchester City defender Richards highlighted the importance of Ampadu.
He said: “Ethan Ampadu, what a player he is. The conductor in midfield. Remember him at Chelsea all those years ago, when he was sort of between a centre half and a centre mid.
“But now he’s so mature. When he plays, they’re a different team. I absolutely love watching him.”
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Can Ethan Ampadu inspire Leeds to survival?
Back at the end of November, Leeds were firmly in the Premier League relegation zone, and the Elland Road faithful must have been fearing for their top-flight status.
Fast forward to the middle of January, and Farke has masterminded a complete turnaround, with Ampadu right at the centre of the revival.
West Ham United occupy the final relegation spot as it stands, but are a massive eight points adrift of Leeds, with less than half of the season remaining.
The Whites now need stability in order to push home their advantage, and Ampadu can help tighten them up at the back.
If Leeds make themselves incredibly hard to beat from now until the end of the season, they will have no problem picking up enough points to avoid relegation.
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